Hazard Tree - Risk Management

Consider the severity, probability, and exposure of hazard tree problems continually as you perform duties in forested communities. Remember to look for hazard tree risks at staging areas, parking areas, and camping areas.

Environmental Element:

Existing winds and forecast.
Night operations or low visibility situations limiting your view of surroundings.
Steep slopes.
Diseased or bug-kill areas with high densities of dead or dying trees.
Number, density, and height of hazard trees.
Amount of time the area has been burning – burn down time.
Potential for domino effect to surrounding trees.

Hazard Tree Indicators:

Trees burning for any period of time.
High-risk tree species (rot and shallow roots).
Numerous downed trees in the area.
Dead, broken, or burning tops and limbs overhead.
Accumulation of downed limbs.
Fungus or growth of decay species on the tree.
Cavities or evidence of woodpecker damage.
Forked tops, multiple tops, and/or uneven branch distribution.
Absence of needles, bark, or limbs.
Leaning or hung-up.

Hazard Control:

Eliminate the hazards with qualified sawyers, blasters/explosives, or heavy equipment.
Avoid hazards by designating “No Work Zones” (NWZ) – (flag, sign, and map).
Modify suppression tactics or fireline location to avoid extreme/high risk rated area.
Post lookouts to help maintain a secure area.
Fireproof potential hazard trees to prevent ignition.
Initiate road/traffic control and area closure.
Keep clear of bucket drops near trees/snags.
Establish trigger points for reposition to secure areas in response to high winds.
Minimize exposure time in hazard tree areas using efficient felling techniques and limiting numbers of personnel in hazardous areas.

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NWCG Latest Announcements

The Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Medical Unit Leader (MEDL)

Date: October 16, 2024
Contact: Incident Medical Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Medical Unit Leader, PMS 350-39 and NWCG Position Task Book for Medical Unit Leader (MEDL), PMS 311-39 are now available.

The Performance Support Package, which for MEDL includes the Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Book, were developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. The Performance Support Package will support trainees, those qualified in the position, and evaluators.

References:

NWCG Medical Unit Leader Position Page

NWCG Incident Position Standards for Medical Unit Leader, PMS 350-39

NWCG Position Task Book for Medical Unit Leader (MEDL), PMS 311-39

The Wildland Fire Learning Portal is Now Available

Date: October 9, 2024
Contact: Wildland Fire Learning Portal

The Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP) is back online following a migration to a new learning management system (LMS) application. The WFLP team is actively addressing any issues that may arise as a result of the update, and appreciates your patience as the team works to enhance your experience. NWCG will share information from the WFLP as it is available.

Should you have any issues with accessing or using the WFLP, please use the link below to submit a ticket through the Help Center.

References:

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Wildland Fire Learning Portal Help Center

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee Releases New Equipment Bulletins

Date: September 27, 2024
Contact: Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released three new Equipment Bulletins:

ETC-EB-24-003 Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in fuel containers.
ETC-EB-24-004 Two-compartment fuel and oil container (Dolmar) unavailable in the United States (US) and reminders for upkeeping current inventories.
ETC-EB-24-005 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Inspection, Care, and Maintenance.

These bulletins remind field going personnel of important issues related to equipment for wildland firefighting efforts.