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Firefighter Math: 6.8 Intersection

Intersection is a method of locating a point on a map by intersecting lines from two known landmarks on the ground. Intersection is one method fire lookouts use in determining the location of a fire. The procedure is as follows:

  1. From the first position, point 1, take a compass reading of the object or fire.
  2. Adjust for declination.
  3. With a compass or protractor, plot this azimuth on the map.
  4. Draw a line from point 1 beyond the point of the object or fire.
  5. Move down the road to a second position, or radio to the second person's location and get that azimuth reading. Repeat steps 2 through 4.
  6. A third and maybe a fourth reading will help further describe the location.
  7. The object or fire is located where the individual lines cross.

Example 1 - Tom is at a lookout tower at point A. He spots a fire and takes a compass reading. The magnetic azimuth is 277°. He radios to John at tower B, who tells him his magnetic azimuth on the fire is 337°. The declination for the area is 16°E. Plot the lines to find the location of the fire. 

Step 1. Convert the magnetic azimuths to true azimuths by adjusting for declination (see Section 6.5).
277° + 16° = 293°
337°+ 16°= 353°

Step 2. Draw the lines of the azimuth from each point well past the fire.

2 lines crossing

Step 3. Read where the two lines intersect to get the location of the fire.

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2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
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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.

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RMC Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNetX Launch

Date:  June 25, 2026
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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.

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

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Date:  June 12, 2026
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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.

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

Date:  June 12, 2026
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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.

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