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Once estimates of Rate of Spread and Flame Length have been obtained, use these classifications to evaluate the level of concern they generate.
| Fire Behavior Class | Rate of Spread (ch/hr) | Flame Length (ft) | Tactical Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very Low | 0-2 | 0-1 | Direct, Hand |
| Low | 2-5 | 1-4 | Direct, Hand |
| Moderate | 5-20 | 4-8 | Direct, Equip |
| High | 20-50 | 8-12 | Indirect |
| Very High | 50-150 | 12-25 | Indirect |
| Extreme | 150+ | 25+ | Indirect |
Date: April 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Hazard Tree and Tree Felling Subcommittee
The updated NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and NWCG Position Task Book for Basic Faller (FAL3), PMS 311-19 are now available.
The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212 includes position standards designed to be used in conjunction with the Next Generation Position Task Book (Next Gen PTB). The Next Gen PTB for Basic Faller (FAL3) includes an evaluation guide with suggested rating elements to consider when assessing trainees.
NWCG Standards For Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212
NWCG Position Task Book for Basic Faller (FAL3), PMS 311-119
Date: April 9, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
RMC Member Eric Fransted
The Risk Management Committee (RMC) serves as the position steward for all Safety Officer incident positions and continues to improve position standards, training, and naming conventions. The implementation of Complex Incident Management (CIM) required changes to position titles. RMC collaborated with the NWCG Incident Position Standards Committee (IPSC) to propose and implement these updates.
RMC Memo 25-01: Summary of Updates to Safety Officer Positions
Date: April 8, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Wildland Fire Investigation Subcommittee
PMS 412 provides guidance for wildland fire investigations. This guide outlines recommended procedures, practices, techniques, and methods to promote a systematic approach. The last update to this publication was in 2016.
NWCG Guide to Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Determination PMS 412
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.
