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PMS 448

Tank – Propane, Fuel, LPG, 20 lb.Tank (5GL)

NFES #
000491
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
1. Store in secured (no-smoking) area. Tanks will vent fumes when they get hot. Store out of direct sun.
2. Refer to Forest Service Health & Safety Handbook, OSHA, NFPA, and local direction.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Check for rust, dents, punctures, broken valves, and weak valve handle. Verify handle type to ensure that tank meets current specifications for “OPD” valve
  2. Confirm test date on propane tank. See link to “Requalification Guidance for Propane Cylinders” under Reference.
  3. Return to stock if unused and recertification is valid.
  4. Refurbish item if tank is undamaged.
  5. Dispose of item if unable to refurbish.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Testing for performance

  1. Apply soapy water to valve area, watch for bubbles indicating leaks.
  2. If leaks are detected, tag immediately for repair or remove from service.
  3. Safely dispose of tank contents per local HAZMAT disposal policy. Deliver tank to local LPG provider for tank testing, repairs, or disposal.

B. Cleaning

  • Power wash tank and let dry.

C. Repair

  1. Replace any broken handles.
  2. Ensure warning labels are visible and replace as necessary. Cylinders must be marked in accordance with NFPA 704 when used in industrial or commercial applications using labels: HZ-116 or CYL 3 in 1.
  3. A painted stencil or decal reading “NOT FOR INDOOR USE” must be located in a highly visible location on the propane tank with red lettering at least 3/4 inches tall in size.
  4. Install plastic cap or plug in valve opening if missing.
  5. All other repair will be done by and authorized facility.
  6. Follow local cache protocols for refilling empty tanks.

D. Repackaging

  1. Ensure valve is in the “OFF” position before transporting.
  2. Place on pallets and secure with wrap or ties to ensure tanks do not fall or tip over. 

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

Updated NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508

Date: March 31, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Airtanker Base Operations Unit

The updated NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations (SABO), PMS 508 standardizes operations and procedures at interagency airtanker bases to ensure safe, efficient, and effective operations in support of interagency goals and objectives.

References:

NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508

WFSTAR 2025 Core Component Module Package and 2024 Fire Year in Review Now Available

Date: March 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Joe Schindel at mschindel@blm.gov
 

The 2025 Core Component Module Package for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) and the 2024 Fire Year in Review are now available on the NWCG website. The 2025 Core Component Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

References:

2025 Core Component Module Package

2024 Fire Year in Review Module

NEW! NWCG Wildland Urban Interface Mitigation Field Guide, PMS 053

Date: March 12, 2025
Contact: Wildland Urban Interface Mitigation Committee

The NWCG Wildland Urban Interface Mitigation Field Guide, PMS 053 provides mitigation practitioners at all experience levels with recommendations on the most effective and efficient ways to accomplish mitigation work in communities at risk to wildfire damage or destruction. The content in this guide was written in coordination with the NWCG Standards for Mitigation in the Wildland Urban Interface, PMS 052.

References:

NWCG Wildland Urban Interface Mitigation Field Guide, PMS 053 

Updated, NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

Date: March 11, 2025
Contact: Fire Use Subcommittee
Wildland Fire Module Unit

The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430 standardizes procedures and expectations for Wildland Fire Modules (WFMs). These standards are to be used by staff, supervisors, specialists, and technicians for planning, administering, and conducting WFM operations. These standards will also be used as a measure of WFM qualifications, capabilities, and expected performance, for both Type 1 and Type 2 WFMs.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430