Skip to main content

PMS 448

Kit – Insulation, Shelter, 20’ Octagon

NFES #
000581
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Refer to NWCG NFES Catalog, – Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment, PMS 449-1, for a complete list of kit components. Replace missing parts as needed.
  2. Inspect roof and wall panels for any tears or rips and repair or replace as needed.
  3. Inspect windows and screens in wall panels. Repair or replace where necessary.
  4. Check for missing straps and Velcro on panels and replace as needed.
  5. Ensure panels are stenciled with correct NFES numbers.
  6. Inspect NFES 001065 aluminum container for damage to the hinges, clasps, handles, and rubber seal in the lid. Repair if possible; replace as needed. Ensure all proper markings and labels are clear and legible.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. DO NOT PRESSURE WASH. Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent. A soft bristle brush and low-pressure garden hose may be used for tougher spots.
  2. Air dry completely before repackaging taking care that there is no moisture in between the insulation layers. Ensure that the Velcro is dry on all panels before folding and placing in proper container.
  3. Wash NFES 001065 aluminum container using damp cloth, garden hose, or pressure wash as needed. Allow to air dry.

B. Repair

  1. Repair any holes, tears, or rips as needed using Type A TEAR-AID Patch. If it requires an excessive number of patches, consider replacement.
  2. Re-stencil NFES numbers as needed.
  3. Often times, damage to the NFES 001065 aluminum container is not economical to repair. Repair when possible, replace as needed.
  4. Replace buckles, straps, and snaps as needed. Velcro and straps may require sewing into place. If damage to the underlying material is excessive, replace as needed.

C. Testing for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  1. Fold neatly, preferably with the NFES stencil visible.
  2. Place folded panels in #001065 aluminum kit container. Use a truck seal or equivalent and seal the clasp.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee Releases Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters

Date: January 15, 2025
Contact: Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters. Non-specification fire shelters claiming to meet Forest Service (FS) fire shelter specification 5100-606 were first found in February of 2023. As of September 2024, non-specification shelters are again being advertised and sold on the open market.

This Safety Warning outlines details and recommended procedures to purchase FS specification shelters made with materials and components that meet performance criteria and toxicity testing requirements outlined in FS Specification 5100-606. 

For additional information on identifying non-specification shelters, please view ETC Safety Warning 23-01.

References:

ETC Safety Warning 25-001: Non-specification fire shelters

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee

ETC Safety Warning 23-01

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Awards

Date: January 14, 2025
Contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee has awarded the 2023 Paul Gleason “Lead By Example” awards to individuals in the categories of Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, and Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Sam Bowen, Superintendent of the Mark Twain Veteran Crew with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Greg Titus, Zone Fire Management Officer for the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Renae Crippen, Manager of the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Eric Carlson, Instructor with OMNA International.

References:

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Interview with Paul Gleason

Updated NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Water Scooper Operations Unit

The NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518 establishes the standards for dispatching, utilizing, and coordinating water scooping aircraft on interagency wildland fires. These standards should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision (SAS), PMS 505, and any local, state, or geographic/regional water scooping plans.

References:

NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Updated NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee

The Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee has updated the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505. PMS 505 establishes standards for aerial supervision operations for national interagency wildland fire operations. 

References:

NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505