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PMS 448

Tank – Propane, Fuel, LPG, 20 lb.Tank (5GL)

NFES #
000491
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
1. Store in secured (no-smoking) area. Tanks will vent fumes when they get hot. Store out of direct sun.
2. Refer to Forest Service Health & Safety Handbook, OSHA, NFPA, and local direction.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Check for rust, dents, punctures, broken valves, and weak valve handle. Verify handle type to ensure that tank meets current specifications for “OPD” valve
  2. Confirm test date on propane tank. See link to “Requalification Guidance for Propane Cylinders” under Reference.
  3. Return to stock if unused and recertification is valid.
  4. Refurbish item if tank is undamaged.
  5. Dispose of item if unable to refurbish.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Testing for performance

  1. Apply soapy water to valve area, watch for bubbles indicating leaks.
  2. If leaks are detected, tag immediately for repair or remove from service.
  3. Safely dispose of tank contents per local HAZMAT disposal policy. Deliver tank to local LPG provider for tank testing, repairs, or disposal.

B. Cleaning

  • Power wash tank and let dry.

C. Repair

  1. Replace any broken handles.
  2. Ensure warning labels are visible and replace as necessary. Cylinders must be marked in accordance with NFPA 704 when used in industrial or commercial applications using labels: HZ-116 or CYL 3 in 1.
  3. A painted stencil or decal reading “NOT FOR INDOOR USE” must be located in a highly visible location on the propane tank with red lettering at least 3/4 inches tall in size.
  4. Install plastic cap or plug in valve opening if missing.
  5. All other repair will be done by and authorized facility.
  6. Follow local cache protocols for refilling empty tanks.

D. Repackaging

  1. Ensure valve is in the “OFF” position before transporting.
  2. Place on pallets and secure with wrap or ties to ensure tanks do not fall or tip over. 

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
 Leadership Committee 

Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

Nominations can be submitted via email with an attached Lead by Example Form to BLM_FA_Leadership_Feedback@blm.gov or through the online form

Tips for successful nominations and more information can be found on the Lead by Example webpage. All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

References:

Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award 

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award Nomination Form 2025 

Leadership Committee 

Coming Soon! Ransom Road WFSTAR Module

Date: December 9, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: NWCG Audiovisual Specialist

On June 8, 1981, the Ransom Road Fire swept across Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, marking a defining moment in wildland fire management. This event led directly to the creation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's professional fire program.

Later this month, NWCG will release a compelling video that brings the Ransom Road Fire to life through firsthand accounts, official reports, and animated maps. Rob Lee, second on site during the deployment, shares his powerful recollections of that day. 

This video will be going live later this month in NWCG's RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) Catalogue.

References:

WFSTAR Catalogue 

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign: "Leadership Levels" Now Available

Date: October 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is excited to announce the release of the Leadership Committee’s 2025–2026 Leadership Campaign, themed “Leadership Levels.” This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

The campaign is structured into four quarters and may be completed at any time between October 1, 2025 -December 31, 2026. Leadership levels will be released quarterly.

Quarter One materials are now available on the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program website and focus on Leadership Level 1, Follower (Self-Leadership).

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Committee

Updated! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

Date: October 3, 2024
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

References:

L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led)

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Wildland Fire Learning Portal