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PMS 448

PMS 448

Introduction

COVID-19 Refurb Guidelines

References

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Aviation

Camp

Clothing

Cordura

Fuel Handling

Kits

Medical

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PPE

Small Engine Equipment

Tools

Water Handling

Deleted Items

Waterbag - 5 gl, suppression, M2015

NFES #
000908
Category
Water Handling
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria    

  1. Inspect vinyl, fabric, and webbing for any holes, cuts, tears, burns, or torn seams that are not economically repairable, if any dispose of.
  2. Inspect plastic cap and fittings for cracks, breaks, missing gaskets or other damage.
  3. If bag appears to be used, inflate bag with air (<10 psi), submerge in water and check for leaks.  Dry vinyl and mark holes with black marker for patching in repair process.
  4. Inspect for any missing fasteners or that does not provide adequate closure.
  5. Inspect for excessive dirt or fuel stains that cleaning cannot eliminate, dispose of.
  6. Inspect for any writings, drawings. Dispose of if cleaning cannot remove markings.
  7. Return to stock if item does not show any signs of use and passes visual inspection.
  8. Refurbish if damage detected is repairable.
  9. Dispose of item if unable to repair.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Remove straps and clean exterior of bag thoroughly with filler cap attached.
  2. Support or hang bag, remove cap and fill with water to rinse out tank.
  3. Replace cap and shake bag vigorously until all foreign matter is removed.
  4. Drain completely.
  5. Invert bag after removing cap and empty as much water as possible.
  6. Let dry inverted for 1 hour in sun, if possible.
  7. Clean the straps with mild detergent and stiff bristle brush, machine launder, or gently pressure wash. Hang to dry.

B. Repair

  1. Patch any hole or tears.  No more than 3 patches should be present on the bag.  If more, dispose of bag.  Small pin hole can be repaired with TEAR-AID® Type B or other similar material recommended by the tank manufacturer.
  2. Larger holes can be repaired utilizing vinyl welding tools and techniques if available.
  3. Holes in the seams may not be repairable.
  4. Place patch on damaged area and apply pressure with roller or suitable device for at least 1 minute.
  5. The filler neck and cap can be replaced following the instructions included in the Fedco Bag Filler Neck Service Kit, part #181874.
  6. Repair or replace any damaged components on bag or straps.
  7. Ensure bags are stenciled with “non-potable” or “suppression use only.”

C. Testing for Performance

  1. Re-inspect any patches or repairs.
  2. Fill with air (<10 psi).  Spray patched area with soapy water and inspect for leaks.

D. Repackaging

  1. 8 each in NFES 002006 carton (23” x 19” x 10”)

 

Reference

Water Handling Equipment Guide, PMS 447-1 

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for PROC and TIME

Date: July 17, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Incident Business Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Procurement Unit Leader (PROC) and Time Unit Leader (TIME).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1 update, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Procurement Unit Leader Position Page

NWCG Time Unit Leader Position Page

National Wildland Firefighter Day

Date: July 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
National Interagency Fire Center

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) recognizes July 2, 2025, as National Wildland Firefighter Day (NWFFD). Established in 2022, NWFFD honors the dedication of wildland firefighters and support personnel. This day falls within the 2025 Week of Remembrance (June 30 - July 6), providing an opportunity to renew our commitment to wildland firefighter safety while remembering those who have fallen in the line of duty.

NWCG provides leadership to enable interoperable wildland fire operations among federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners. NWCG standards and training establish common practices to contribute to safe, effective, and coordinated interagency wildland fire operations nationwide.

References:

Week of Remembrance

National Wildland Firefighter Day

2025 Week of Remembrance

Date: June 27, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2025 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on the past incidents from 2015 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations—whether in briefing rooms or at tailgates—that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2025 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003 Flame-Resistant Shirt Survey

Date: June 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The U.S. Forest Service National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) is seeking input on the Forest Service-designed flame-resistant (FR) shirt, currently available through the National Interagency Support Cache system and FedMall.

NTDP is conducting a product review to improve future FR shirt designs. As part of this effort, a short survey is now open for federal employees who have worn any of three recent FR shirt models. Feedback will guide design improvements to better meet the needs of wildland firefighters.

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act, responses are limited to federal employees. The survey is open through September 12, 2025. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003