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Can – Gasoline, Safety, 5 GL, DOT Approved

NFES #
000606
Category
Fuel Handling
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
If stored outside protect from rain, snow, or any form of moisture.

Initial inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for fuel or mixes and dispose of properly.
  2. Using a mirror and flashlight, inspect the ceiling of the can for additional rust. Inspect all interior surfaces for rust that has pitted, is flaking, or is lifting the interior surface.  Spots larger than a quarter, or collectively multiple areas larger than a quarter, will render the can unserviceable.  Some flash rust may be present and is acceptable. 
  3. Inspect for impacts or dents to corners and seams as separation and/or leaks may occur.
  4. Inspect all threads on nozzles for serviceability.
  5. If can is a quick coupler type, push nozzle into place ensuring that lock button clicks.
  6. Inspect spring closure devices to be sure they are functioning properly.
  7. Inspect for can integrity and uniformity, i.e., collar crushed, large dents, punctures, modifications.
  8. Inspect all cotter keys and pins.
  9. Ensure that containers are properly marked and labeled.
  10. Ensure spark arrester screen is present. Replace screen as necessary.
  11. Return to stock if item shows no signs of use and passes visual inspection.
  12. Refurbish if item has been used and/or damage is repairable.
  13. Dispose of item if damage is found and it cannot be repaired.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Drain all existing fuel.
  2. With pressure washer and detergent wash outside of container.
  3. Clean and dry the interior of the container utilizing evacuators, swabbing, and air drying.  Using a forced air process is not recommended as excess vapors can create a hazardous environment.
  4. Turn upside down with lids off or open to dry.
  5. Spray inside of can lightly with WD-40 or similar product.

B. Repair

  1. Replace rubber O-ring in discharge port of pin-lock style gas cans.
  2. Replace any defective cotter key or pins.
  3. Wipe down outside of container and repaint if necessary.
  4. Ensure container is properly marked and labeled. Color requirement for the can is red with yellow markings. Label shall be FLAMMABLE LIQUID as well as a 1-inch yellow vinyl strip around the bottom of the can (see photo below for example) Markings are dependent on fuel type and can be accomplished using NFES tags #000805, #000802, #000803, #000801. See the NWCG Standards for Transporting Fuel, PMS 442, for more information.
  5. Chain is not required but can be utilized if easily repaired.

C. Tests for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  • Ensure spout is zip tied to handle.

Closeup of the top of a fuel can with the hose zip tied to the handle. Red gas can with spout.

 

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee Releases Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters

Date: January 15, 2025
Contact: Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters. Non-specification fire shelters claiming to meet Forest Service (FS) fire shelter specification 5100-606 were first found in February of 2023. As of September 2024, non-specification shelters are again being advertised and sold on the open market.

This Safety Warning outlines details and recommended procedures to purchase FS specification shelters made with materials and components that meet performance criteria and toxicity testing requirements outlined in FS Specification 5100-606. 

For additional information on identifying non-specification shelters, please view ETC Safety Warning 23-01.

References:

ETC Safety Warning 25-001: Non-specification fire shelters

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee

ETC Safety Warning 23-01

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Awards

Date: January 14, 2025
Contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee has awarded the 2023 Paul Gleason “Lead By Example” awards to individuals in the categories of Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, and Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Sam Bowen, Superintendent of the Mark Twain Veteran Crew with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Greg Titus, Zone Fire Management Officer for the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Renae Crippen, Manager of the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Eric Carlson, Instructor with OMNA International.

References:

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Interview with Paul Gleason

Updated NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Water Scooper Operations Unit

The NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518 establishes the standards for dispatching, utilizing, and coordinating water scooping aircraft on interagency wildland fires. These standards should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision (SAS), PMS 505, and any local, state, or geographic/regional water scooping plans.

References:

NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Updated NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee

The Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee has updated the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505. PMS 505 establishes standards for aerial supervision operations for national interagency wildland fire operations. 

References:

NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505