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PMS 936-1

Create Incident Maps and Digital Products

NWCG Committee Realignment Website Updates: Content will continue to be updated over the coming days as we work through final reviews and adjustments, and all publications and products are currently under revision.

GISS Workflow Diagram: Create Incident Maps and Digital Products

Create Incident Maps and Digital Products – Repeat as Necessary

  1. Create or Update Incident Map(s).
    1. Use an existing Master Project or open the Pro Project Template and Save As to create a new Master Project per GeoOps.
    2. Repair path of Event layer file(s)  to point to the Master Incident GDB.
    3. Add base maps and ancillary datasets to map.
    4. Create a layout or make a copy of a provided layout template for the desired map product.
    5. Apply definition queries to display only the Event Features appropriate for the intended map audience.
    6. Use dynamic labeling where applicable and create annotation as necessary.
    7. Ensure all essential map elements are present and correct (STANDL SGD).
    8. Export Geospatial PDF map per GeoOps standards.
  2. Create and share public web products.

GIS Workflow, explained below

Figure 1.Create Incident Maps and Digital Products
(click image to open larger)

 

General Map Guidelines

The maps presented in this section are not all-inclusive, only maps that have specific processes or analysis are listed. The most common maps requested of a GISS are listed in the NWCG Standards for Geospatial Operations (GeoOps), PMS 936, Map Product Standards Section. For uncommon products, the desired elements are typically provided by the person requesting the map through the Situation Unit Leader (SITL). If not, the GISS should request additional guidance.

Other Procedural considerations include:

  • The SITL (or equivalent) decides which maps to produce and approves final versions.
  • The SITL directs the use of logos.
  • Placement of fire acreage (and total acreage reported) on maps is at the discretion of the SITL.
  • The GISS should consider the page size and whether color is needed; many maps may need specific formatting and may be reproduced on black and white copy machines.
  • The GISS schedules map production to meet specific deadlines.
  • North arrow may need to be rotated to indicate true north correctly.
  • Drafts: Maps that are for review only may include “DRAFT.”
  • Sensitive information: Maps may need labels defining the sensitivity of the data (e.g., For Official Use Only, Not for Public Distribution or Use).
  • Disclaimers: Maps may include disclaimers if requested or required under delegated authority (e.g., For Reference Only).
  • Proprietary information: Maps should cite the source for any proprietary information.

Responsibilities

Timelines for map production are established with the SITL, Planning Section Chief (PSC), or the assigned supervisor. The GISS generates all products on time for scheduled briefings and other meetings. Map definitions should be used as general guidelines; the SITL or PSC has the authority to deviate from the standards

Communications

All incident map requests are channeled through the SITL or PSC so they are kept informed of the GISS workload and can help prioritize needs. The SITL or PSC may instruct the GISS to work with the end-user of the map to clarify map product requirements. Final map products are approved by the SITL or PSC (or assigned supervisor) before release, unless otherwise arranged.

Job Aids

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: 6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2026 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on past incidents from 2016 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2026 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

RMC Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNetX Launch

Date:  June 25, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Risk Management Committee

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) is pleased to announce the launch of SafeNetX, the modernized safety reporting system now available to the wildland fire community. Effective June 15, 2026, SafeNetX enables reporting of unsafe, unhealthy, near-miss, and high-risk operations across wildland fire, all-hazard incidents, training, and related work environments.

SafeNetX is the result of a multi-agency modernization effort led by RMC, which began evaluating improvements to the legacy SAFENET system in 2021. To learn more, read the full RMC memorandum in the links provided.

References:

SafeNetX

RMC Safety Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNet X Launch

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) announces the recipients of the 2025 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Awards. EMC annually recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated outstanding actions or accomplishments that are above and beyond the expectation of one’s normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety of the wildland fire community. These awards are well deserved.

References:

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Emergency Medical Committee

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book Now Available for RAMP

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Airtanker Base Operations Unit

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Ramp Manager (RAMP).

The Performance Support Package for this position was developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for release in January 2027.

References:

NWCG Ramp Manager Position Page

National Interagency Aviation Committee