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Field Observer

FOBS Incident Position Description

The Field Observer (FOBS) is responsible for collecting incident status information from personal observations at the incident and providing this information to the Situation Unit Leader (SITL), Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN), Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS), Safety Officer (SOF), and other fireline resources as directed. The information may include fire perimeter location, on-site weather, smoke monitoring, fire behavior, fuel conditions, and fire effects information needed to assess firefighter safety and whether the fire is achieving established incident objectives and requirements. The FOBS typically works for the SITL in the Planning functional area.

Leadership Level 2, New Leader (Convey Intent)

  • For additional information review Level 2 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at the assignment.
  • Check in with the incident supervisor and/or dispatch when arriving at the incident.
  • Review Incident Action Plan (IAP) and obtain briefing, objectives, and intent
    from supervisor.
  • Obtain briefing from previous shift/assignment position, as necessary.

Build The Team

  • Establish and communicate chain of command, reporting procedures, risk management processes, and radio frequency management.
  • Establish a common operating picture with supervisors and subordinates.
  • Participate in operational briefings as directed.
  • Communicate with Resource Advisors (READs) to ensure coordinated efforts and information sharing.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

  • Adjust actions based on changing information and evolving situation awareness. Develop and implement contingency plans. Communicate changing conditions to assigned resources and supervisor.
  • Identify, analyze, and use relevant situational information to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions.

Perform Field Observer-Specific Duties

  • Determine location of assignment, types of information required, priorities, time limits for completion, methods of communication and documentation, and method of transportation.
  • Coordinate travel to and from the fireline (e.g., travel routes, communication procedures, and accountability). Ensure adherence to vehicle safety procedures. Identify ingress and egress routes. Consider bridge and road limits, equipment weight and length, and weather effects.
  • Report special occurrences (e.g., structure/improved property loss or damage, accidents, or sickness) to supervisor.
  • Through the established chain of command, assist the responsible land management agency and/or assigned READ with the protection of natural, cultural, and other resources. Communicate when such resources are discovered and document suppression impacts.
  • Assist operations with data gathering related to the Structure Protection Plan.
  • Use maps, compass, Global Positioning System (GPS), and other tools and applications to gather information and navigate on the incident.
  • Obtain, record, and monitor weather and fire behavior data.
  • Recognize and report atmospheric characteristics that influence fire behavior.
  • Identify possible smoke sensitive areas (roads, communities, schools, hospitals, etc.) that may be impacted by smoke.
  • Monitor and record smoke impacts and notify supervisor, Air Resource Advisor (ARA) and/or SOF when heavy smoke is present.
  • Recon the assigned fire area.
  • Plot fire perimeter on a map.
  • Assist in preparing maps for use in Situation Unit, Incident Command Post (ICP), and IAP to ensure accuracy.
  • Communicate notable fire behavior events with fireline supervisors and Situation Unit/FBAN, as appropriate.
  • Notify Operational overhead when you are in their assigned area.
  • Complete observation logs or forms for weather, fire behavior, fuel conditions, and fire effects, and take photos as assigned.
  • Assist supervisor in preparing for daily briefings by providing current information on fire spread and behavior, weather, and threats to values at risk.
  • Attend debriefings of operations personnel to obtain current situation information.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Follow established processes and chain of command for collecting, producing, and distributing information. 
  • Ensure clear understanding of expectations and timely communication within and across Incident Command System (ICS) functional areas and chain of command.
  • Establish communications and exchange necessary briefings/information with the following:
    • Support resources
    • Adjacent resources
    • Supervisor
    • Other ICS functional areas
  • Communicate effectively using multichannel radios. Prepare and program radios for assignment. Use plain language and ICS terminology.
  • Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AAR).

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461:
    • Identify Hazards
    • Assess Hazards
    • Develop Controls and Make Risk Decisions
    • Implement Controls
    • Supervise and Evaluate
  • Ensure Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) are established and known to all firefighters before they are needed. Refer to guidelines stated in IRPG.
  • Use Look Up, Down and Around in IRPG to maintain situational awareness. Adjust actions accordingly. Develop and communicate contingency plans and trigger points to subordinates and supervisor.
  • Utilize SOFs to assist with the risk management process and provide input into the safety of operations.
  • Immediately report any condition that may cause danger or be a safety hazard to personnel.

Document

Demobilize

  • Plan for demobilization. Follow incident and agency demobilization procedures, ensuring that work/rest driving guidelines are followed.
  • Coordinate an efficient transfer of position duties when mobilizing and demobilizing (e.g., IMT or host agency).
  • Return equipment and supplies to the appropriate unit. 
  • Check out with the incident training coordinator for any trainees you supervised.
  • Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
  • Upon demobilization, report status to home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the home unit.
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NWCG Latest Announcements

2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards

Date: May 22, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards. Each year, EMC recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional actions or accomplishments that go above and beyond their normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety and well-being of the wildland fire community. These honors are well deserved.

References:

2024 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

NWCG Emergency Medical Committee

NWCG Welcomes the Incident Management Teams Association as an Associate Member

Date: May 21, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
https://www.nwcg.gov/contact-us

The NWCG Executive Board is honored to announce that the Incident Management Teams Association (IMTA) has joined the National Wildfire Coordinating Group as an associate member.

IMTA is a dedicated group of incident management professionals committed to enhancing the profession by promoting standards and fostering collaboration across federal, state, local, Tribal, and private sector partners throughout all phases of incident management.

“Joining NWCG aligns with our mission to elevate incident management professionals nationwide,” said Dr. Randal Collins, President of IMTA. “This is a proud moment for all of us committed to advancing public safety.”

References:

Incident Management Teams Association

National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

Date: May 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Fire Use Subcommittee

The updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431 serves as a supplemental resource for wildland fire module operations, providing information frequently used in the field.

PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

References:

NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

Updated NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 Now Includes Off-Highway Vehicle Typing Standards

Date: May 13, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Mobile Fire Equipment Subcommittee 

The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 has been updated to include newly developed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) typing standards. These standards organize OHV information into logical categories and outline key safety requirements for occupants.

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 establishes minimum typing standards for aircraft, crews, and equipment used in national mobilization to wildland fire incidents. Typing designations are assigned based on measurable capability and performance criteria.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200