Skip to main content

PMS 448

Kit – Shelter, 20’ Octagon

NFES #
000549
Category
Kits
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect packing list and instructions. Refer to NWCG National Fire Equipment System Catalog for a complete list of kit components.
    1. Assemble the mainframe and components according to instructions. All locking pins and flex joints should move easily.
    2. Inspect for burrs on all components of mainframe, eve bars, and base bars.
    3. Loosen flex joints and remove burrs as needed.
  2. Inspect and install door. Door should open and close easily.
  3. Inspect roof and wall panels for any tears or rips and repair as needed.
  4. Inspect windows and screens in wall panels. Repair or replace where necessary.
  5. Check for broken welds on key flange, repair by bolting.
  6. Return to stock if shelter was not used, all kit contents are accounted for, and the shelter is clean.
  7. Refurbish kit if the shelter was used or is missing components.
  8. Disposal of complete kits is not recommended. Seek direction from local cache management for specific disposal criteria. Components that are damaged beyond repair should be disposed of and replaced with like items.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean main frame and misc. parts with a damp cloth and mild detergent if necessary.
  2. Clean the roof and wall panels with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a brush to remove hard dirt and grime or high pressure wash. Rinse well.
  3. Air dry completely before repackaging.

B. Repair

  1. Repair or replace any part of the main frame as needed. Bolt key flange.
  2. When dismantling, wipe all component parts with a damp cloth and return to proper container.
  3. Repair any holes, tears or rips as needed.
  4. Ensure that all locking buttons snap into place.
  5. Ensure that the Velcro is dry on all panels before folding and placing in proper container.
  6. Stencil main frame with property number, stencil inside the center roof ring.
  7.  Ensure that all kit components are accounted for prior to repacking.

C. Testing for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  1. Repack according to manufacturer’s instructions and local cache option.
  2. Ensure that installation/assembly instructions are included in package.

 

Reference

Replacement parts may be obtained by contacting:
Western Shelter Systems
830 Wilson Street
Eugene, OR 97402
Phone: 541–344–7267

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and Next Generation Position Task Book for Basic Faller Are Now Available

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.

References:

NWCG Standards For Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212

NWCG Position Task Book for Basic Faller (FAL3), PMS 311-119

NWCG Basic Faller (FAL3)

RMC Memo 25-01: Summary of Updates to Safety Officer Positions

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. 

References:

RMC Memo 25-01: Summary of Updates to Safety Officer Positions 

NWCG Position Catalog

Updated, NWCG Guide to Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Determination, PMS 412

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.

References:

NWCG Guide to Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Determination PMS 412

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