Skip to main content

PMS 448

Heater – Propane, 20# Tank Mounted

NFES #
006139
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visual inspect for missing parts (guards, knobs, etc.) or any structural damage preventing repair. Inspect for torn or cut heater element, damaged or cracked hose/hose connections, loose fittings, and damage to regulators.
  2. Inspect hoses for cracks, inspecting for breaks by flexing.
  3. Inspect hose or valve for foreign material that might cause a blocked line.
  4. Inspect O-rings on supply hose and replace if needed.
  5. Inspect for out-of-round fittings by screwing regulator into tank POL fitting.
  6. Return to stock if item passes initial inspection, passes Testing for Performance, is clean, and is serviceable.
  7. Refurbish heater if any damage is repairable, missing or damaged components are available, and it’s economically feasible to refurbish.
  8. Dispose of heaters that have structural damage that prevents repair. Salvage parts that are serviceable for future repairs. Dispose of damaged regulators and cracked or damaged hoses.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean the outside of the heater using a damp cloth. DO NOT clean the heater by spraying water on it.
  2. Clean the inside of the heater using compressed air.

B. Repair

  1. Replace regulator if there is any damage to the regulator or threads do not properly seat.
  2. Replace or straighten any damaged or bent parts.
  3. Repair or replace auto shut off valve if not working properly (if applicable.)
  4. Replace any damaged or cracked hose or hose connections.

C. Testing for Performance

  1. Prior to testing use an air hose to blow unit off of any dust, dirt or debris.
  2. Perform initial inspections prior to testing.
  3. Ensure a fire extinguisher is in the work area prior to lighting any heater.
  4. Mount or connect the heater to a LP-Gas supply cylinder.
  5. Turn on gas supply to the heater and check all fittings and connections for gas leaks using mild soap and water solution. NEVER INSPECT FOR LEAKS USING A MATCH OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF FLAME. Should a gas leak occur, shut off the gas supply to the heater immediately and wait a minimum of five minutes before repairing the leak.
  6. When assured that there are no leaks, light heater/pilot. If heater/pilot does not ignite within 5 seconds, extinguish flame and shut off gas valve. Wait 5 minutes before retrying.
  7. (#006139 heaters) Once pilot is lit, let run for 3-5 minutes, try on/off cycle 2 to 3 times.
  8. (#006187 heaters) Once pilot is lit, turn heater on, let run for 3-5 minutes; try on/off cycle 2 to 3 times.
  9. If heater fails, determine if economical to repair, send to a certified repair shop.
  10. Inspect auto shut off valve is in working condition by tipping unit over (if applicable.)

D. Repackaging

  • Repack in original carton if possible or pack to local cache option.

 

Share on Social Media

NWCG Latest Announcements

2025/2026 Leadership Campaign Quarter 2 Now Available!

Date: February 13, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that the Quarter Two materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available! This annual initiative invites all leadership and wildland fire management students to engage with essential skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

This quarter focuses on Leadership Level 2: New Leader (Conveying Intent). Conveying intent is a crucial leadership competency in the high-risk, dynamic environment of wildland firefighting. Months 4 - 6 will concentrate on how successfully conveying intent enhances situational awareness, promotes shared understanding, and empowers firefighters to exercise initiative and adapt to changing conditions.

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Committee

Opportunity to Serve the Wildland Fire Community as an IPTM SME!

Date: February 10, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG SME Specialist

NWCG is seeking experienced wildland firefighters and support personnel to serve as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) initiative. The intent of IPTM is to transition NWCG’s training and qualification system to a performance-based model through updated position descriptions, Incident Position Standards, Next Generation Position Task Books (Next Gen PTBs), and updates to training where needed.

NWCG is currently recruiting SMEs for the following positions:

  • Aircraft Timekeeper (ATIM)
  • Compensation/Claims Unit Leader (COMP)
  • Cost Unit Leader (COST)
  • Crew Representative (CREP)
  • Deck Coordinator (DECK)
  • Fire Effects Monitor (FEMO)
  • Field Observer (FOBS)
  • Geographic Information System Specialist (GISS)
  • Ordering Manager (ORDM)
  • Receiving/Distribution Manager (RCDM)
  • Staging Area Manager (STAM)

Projects begin April/May 2026 and require 15–20 hours per month for 6–8 months, including a five-day workshop in Boise, Idaho this May. Apply by February 27, 2026, at the link below and review the attached document for details.

References:

NWCG SME Interest Sign-up

IPTM Subject Matter Expert Duties and Expectations Document

Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM)

NEW! M-280, Resource Advisor, Fireline (Instructor-Led) Course Available Now

Date: January 29, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Resource Advisor Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new M-280, Resource Advisor, Fireline (Instructor-Led) course is now available. This training supports individuals working towards Resource Advisor, Fireline (REAF) incident qualifications.

M-280, Resource Advisor, Fireline (Instructor-Led) training prepares students to serve as a Resource Advisor, Fireline (REAF) as defined in NWCG Incident Position Standards for Resource Advisor, Fireline, PMS 350-112. This course presents scenarios that reflect the diverse challenges a REAF may encounter during an incident. Through these scenarios, participants gain hands-on experience and an understanding of REAF responsibilities in a controlled learning environment.

References:

Resource Advisor, Fireline Position Page

NWCG Position Standards for Resource Advisor, Fireline, PMS 350-112

M-280, Resource Advisor, Fireline (Instructor-Led)

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

2026 Updates to the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1

Date: January 23, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident and Position Standards Committee

The Incident and Position Standards Committee has updated the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1.

These updates address changes to incident position names and requirements for qualification, training, and experience. Updates related to the implementation of Complex Incident Management (CIM) and Incident Performance Training Modernization (IPTM) are also included.

The NWCG Wildland Fire Position Qualification Flowchart, PMS 308 has also been updated to reflect the recent changes.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1

NWCG Wildland Fire Position Qualification Flowchart, PMS 308

IPSC Memo 26-01: January 2026 Updates to the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Positions Qualifications, PMS 310-1