FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters

by Featured NewsTraining

Grant funding to increase firefighter staffing and safety opens in the United States

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reported the availability of $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations under two federal programmes.

FEMA stated the Fiscal Year 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programme will provide $360 million to support the recruitment and retention of trained firefighters.

An additional $36 million will be distributed under the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant programme to support community fire prevention initiatives and research focused on firefighter safety and health.

SAFER programme to support recruitment of firefighters

FEMA reported that the SAFER programme is designed to help fire departments increase or maintain the number of trained firefighters in their communities.

The agency said the grants may be used to help departments meet minimum industry staffing standards and ensure 24-hour personnel coverage, in addition to supporting traditional fire service operations.

FEMA stated that since 2005, the SAFER programme has distributed approximately $5.2 billion in grants to fire departments and firefighter organisations.

FP&S programme to support prevention and health research

FEMA explained that the FP&S programme funds initiatives that enhance fire prevention and safety for both firefighters and the public.

According to FEMA, eligible applicants include local and Tribal governments, fire departments, academic institutions, and nonprofit organisations. Projects supported include public fire safety education and research on behavioural, social, and occupational health issues.

The agency noted that since its inception in 2002, the FP&S programme has awarded nearly $900 million in grants.

Previous recipients report impact of funding

FEMA cited the Medway Fire Department in Massachusetts as an example of SAFER programme impact. The department received $741,443 to hire four new firefighters.

Chief Jeff Lynch said: “Due to the presence of a firefighter hired using SAFER funding, the department was able to respond with additional personnel to a house fire on March 20, 2019.”

He added: “Firefighters rescued the family dog and contained the fire in time to save the home and their belongings.”

FEMA also noted that the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association has received over $3.5 million in FP&S funding since 2016. The organisation used the funds to develop ResponderSafety.com and training programmes addressing firefighter risks on roadways.

Application timeline and guidance

FEMA stated that the application period for both SAFER and FP&S grants opens on 23 May 2025 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time and closes on 3 July 2025 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

Technical assistance documents and funding opportunity details are available on www.grants.gov and the FEMA website.

Applicants can also find guidance and information on upcoming webinars via the FEMA website.

FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters: Summary

FEMA has announced $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations.

$360 million will be available through the SAFER programme to support the hiring and retention of trained firefighters.

$36 million will be available through the FP&S programme for fire prevention and safety research.

The application period for both programmes opens on 23 May 2025 and closes on 3 July 2025.

The Medway Fire Department and Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association have previously received funding from these programmes.

FEMA said SAFER grants help departments maintain staffing and response capabilities.

FP&S grants support research and educational initiatives to improve firefighter safety.

Since 2005, SAFER has awarded $5.2 billion in grants.

Since 2002, FP&S has distributed nearly $900 million.

Application guidance and resources are available on the FEMA website and www.grants.gov.

FEMA suspends National Fire Academy training pending review

by Breaking NewsTraining

FEMA cancels in-person training at National Fire Academy

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced the immediate suspension of all in-person training at the National Fire Academy (NFA) until further notice.

A notice sent to instructors, students, and fire departments stated that FEMA is evaluating its programs and spending to align with administration priorities.

The notice said: “For those courses that can continue virtually, we will do so, and you will receive more information soon. For those that are unable to proceed in a virtual format we will reevaluate rescheduling of courses once the review is complete.”

A follow-up notice clarified that only virtual courses without an instructor and no associated funding will proceed. Instructors were advised to cancel all future travel plans.

Impact on firefighter training

The suspension affects firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders who travel to the NFA’s Maryland campus for federally funded training programs.

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, former U.S. fire administrator, said: “The U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy (NFA) is the premier professional training institution for America’s structural, industrial and wildland firefighters (both career and volunteers) from local, state, tribal and federal agencies.

“It is the American fire service war college. [The canceled] courses and many others offered at the NFA are critical for firefighters and their communities.”

She added: “The longer the NFA is shutdown, the greater the gap in professional development for firefighters and paramedics in the U.S. The NFA instructors also train arson investigators for all levels of government, including the ATF.”

Concerns over training gaps

The NFA, established under the 1974 Fire Prevention and Control Act, provides free training for firefighters across the country. The sudden suspension has raised concerns about the impact on emergency response preparedness.

Marc Bashoor, a former Maryland fire chief and West Virginia emergency services director, said: “The NFA is a powerhouse for the fire service. It’s not a ‘nice to have.’ It is the one avenue we have to bring people from all over the country to learn from and with each other.”

Bashoor said training cancellations have caused disruptions for students who had already made travel arrangements.

He added: “People had made their plane and travel reservations. And all of a sudden, they get an email that ‘Sorry, it’s been canceled.’ It’s really upsetting.”

Future of NFA training remains uncertain

FEMA has not provided a timeline for when the training programs might resume. The agency has not responded to requests for further comment on the review process.

Bashoor expressed concerns about how this decision might impact future emergency responses: “If we want to continue to have one of the premier fire services in the world, we need to have the National Fire Academy.”

FEMA suspends National Fire Academy training: Summary

FEMA has announced the immediate suspension of in-person training at the National Fire Academy while it conducts a review of agency programs and spending. Training will continue virtually only in cases where no instructor or funding is required.

The decision affects firefighters, EMS providers, and first responders nationwide who rely on NFA’s federally funded training programs. Experts have raised concerns about potential gaps in firefighter education and emergency preparedness.

The NFA was founded in 1973 as part of a national strategy to improve fire safety. Critics of the suspension argue that it could hinder firefighter development and arson investigation training.

FEMA has not provided a timeline for when in-person courses will resume.

World Fire Congress focuses on global collaboration and firefighter safety

by EventsFeatured News

World Fire Congress 2024 addresses global firefighting strategies and challenges

Last week, FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration hosted the inaugural World Fire Congress in Washington, D.C., welcoming delegates from over 50 nations.

This event, as reported by FEMA, aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to mitigate fire risks, address wildfires, and enhance firefighter health and safety.

The conference focused on sharing best practices and improving global response capabilities amid increasing wildfire threats driven by climate change.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas addressed the delegates, highlighting the importance of the event.

Mayorkas said: “What you did here these past few days and the many advances to the work of firefighting and fire prevention that will grow from it in the years ahead, will save lives — of first responders and of all those who depend on them.

“[It] is a recognition of the obligation that we have to the world’s firefighters: to be there for all of them, as they have been there for all of us.”

Focus on firefighter health and safety

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasised the interconnected nature of modern disasters.

Criswell said: “The world has watched as our ecosystem — our shared home — has been challenged at every turn. And the reality is, we’ve never been more closely connected. A disaster in one nation can cause ripple effects across the globe.

“That’s why this World Fire Congress is so important — it’s an opportunity to build upon these relationships and continue to share knowledge and best practices with one another.”

U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell also addressed the participants, underscoring the shared challenges faced by firefighters globally.

“We know that when emergencies or disasters strike, firefighters respond. Your responders are first on scene in often unexpected circumstances and unfamiliar surroundings.

“They are exposed to toxic chemicals or conditions that threaten their physical wellbeing and even their lives,” Moore-Merrell said.

Establishing a global fire service leadership network

This historic event established a global fire service leadership network dedicated to supporting and strengthening fire services worldwide.

The network aims to develop solutions to common challenges through the Statement of Founding Principles and Objectives.

The Congress will convene every two years, with the next meeting hosted by the United Kingdom Home Office and National Fire Chiefs Council in 2026.

IFSJ Comment

The inaugural World Fire Congress marks a pivotal moment in global firefighting efforts.

By bringing together representatives from over 50 nations, the Congress facilitates the exchange of knowledge and best practices essential for addressing the increasing threat of wildfires and other fire-related disasters.

The focus on firefighter health and safety, highlighted by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and U.S.

Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, underscores the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding first responders and the communities they serve.

The establishment of a global fire service leadership network is a significant step towards creating a unified approach to firefighting and fire prevention.

The biennial meetings will ensure that the dialogue and collaboration initiated at this Congress continue to evolve, enabling nations to develop robust strategies to mitigate fire risks.

The commitment to holding the next Congress in the United Kingdom in 2026 further solidifies the ongoing dedication to this global initiative.

FEMA publishes inaugural response and recovery review for 2023

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured News

Overview of FEMA’s 2023 response and recovery efforts

In 2023, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) faced a series of unique disasters, from natural calamities in Guam, Maui, and Vermont, to supporting over 100 new disaster responses, including 84 presidentially declared events.

This unprecedented challenge led to FEMA providing more than $1.3 billion in direct assistance to survivors.

The newly released Office of Response and Recovery Year in Review report for 2023 details these efforts, spanning across the continental United States, Caribbean, Western Pacific, and Alaska.

The report underscores the agency’s increased operational tempo in response to the changing climate.

Since 2016, the number of staff deployed to support survivors has more than doubled.

In 2023, FEMA deployed an average of 7,113 responders annually and collectively spent over 1.3 million days responding to disasters.

Their dedication was pivotal in distributing essential support and resources to aid survivors and communities in their recovery process.

FEMA administrator’s perspective on 2023’s challenges and achievements

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell reflected on the agency’s performance over the past year: “As an agency and as a nation we faced numerous devastating disasters in 2023.

“In light of the destruction, the FEMA workforce found opportunities for collaboration and areas for ingenuity to better support survivors and their communities.

“This year in review is a glimpse into the important work conducted in 2023 to help people during some of their hardest moments.

“We will take these experiences and lessons with us to help more people, more effectively in 2024.”

In 2023, FEMA introduced new methods to prioritize people and remove obstacles for disaster assistance.

The Recovery Directorate used a process to identify and support applicants who required proactive help in navigating FEMA’s recovery programs.

This initiative resulted in over $60 million in additional funds for survivors.

Additional improvements to enhance the survivor experience included simplified letters for assistance applicants and the creation of the first Pre-Disaster Housing initiative, in partnership with the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development, to provide reliable and safe housing for disaster survivors.

Innovative approaches and rapid response in disaster recovery

Anne Bink, Associate Administrator for the Office of Response and Recovery, commented on the office’s performance: “The Office of Response and Recovery has done truly remarkable work over this past year.

“We continue to lean forward proactively, and we strive to integrate response and recovery immediately following an incident.

“To ensure expedited recovery for survivors, we pre-deployed our Disaster Survivor Assistance teams to Florida, and registered survivors for assistance within four hours of President Biden’s Major Disaster Declaration after Hurricane Idalia.

“In 2024, we will continue to work to ensure that FEMA is ready to meet the mission, no matter when, where, or how disaster strikes.”

FEMA’s response was highly effective throughout the year, particularly during the historic Hawaii wildfire in August 2023, where search and rescue operations covered over 2,000 structures.

The ongoing recovery effort remains focused on delivering technical assistance and coordinating efforts across federal agencies.

In Mississippi, following the spring tornadoes, FEMA staff were onsite within hours, closely collaborating with the state emergency management agency.

Within two weeks of the major disaster declaration, over $7.7 million in federal assistance was approved for survivors.

FEMA’s engagement with numerous faith-based groups and community-based organizations ensured comprehensive support for affected communities.

IFSJ Comment

The Office of Response and Recovery’s Year in Review report for 2023 released by FEMA provides a comprehensive overview of the agency’s efforts in facing an array of unprecedented disasters.

FEMA’s increased operational capacity and innovative approaches have been instrumental in providing vital assistance to survivors and aiding in their recovery.

The agency’s commitment to enhancing the survivor experience, its rapid deployment in disaster-stricken areas, and the successful integration of response and recovery operations demonstrate its dedication to its mission.

The focus on proactive support, technological advancements, and building resilient communities sets a commendable precedent for future disaster management and recovery efforts.

Fire stop tour 2024 stresses importance of being fire safe and winter ready

by AmericasFeatured NewsSafety

Raising awareness of winter fire hazards

The United States Fire Administrator, along with the FEMA Region V Administrator and leaders of America’s fire service, embarked on the Fire Stop Tour 2024 from January 22 to 24.

This initiative aims to heighten public awareness about fire safety, especially in the winter months.

The tour, which included stops in Detroit, Chicago, and Columbus, emphasised the need for individuals and families to be fire safe and #WinterReady.

This campaign is particularly pertinent as fire-related dangers and fatalities typically increase during the colder months.

In 2024, the U.S.

has already seen a worrying trend in fire-related fatalities, with over 25 children losing their lives to home fires since January 1.

The total number of deaths has reached 142, averaging eight fatalities per day.

At this rate, the year could see fire deaths surpassing 3,000, topping the nearly 2,300 deaths recorded in 2023, which included 232 children, 498 older adults, and 85 firefighters.

These figures are not just statistics; they represent a significant loss to communities and families across the nation.

Impact of fires beyond fatalities

Beyond the tragic loss of life, fires have other far-reaching consequences.

The destruction of homes leads to thousands of people being displaced, contributing to homelessness.

These sobering facts underscore the urgent need to educate the public about fire prevention and safety measures, particularly during the winter months.

Cold weather brings additional risks, and the steps taken to prepare can be life-saving.

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, head of the US Fire Administration, stated: “Unwanted and destructive fires are preventable, and educating the public about how to protect themselves is a key step in reducing these tragedies.”

This message was echoed throughout the tour, emphasising the importance of proactive measures in fire prevention.

Ahead of the DHS Extreme Cold Summit

The Fire Stop Tour 2024 also serves as a precursor to the Department of Homeland Security’s Extreme Cold Summit.

The summit aims to bring together various stakeholders to discuss community challenges, vulnerabilities during winter, and actionable steps to mitigate the impact of extreme cold.

The tour and the upcoming summit highlight a concerted effort to address winter-related risks at both the local and national levels.

Federal, local, and national organisation leaders have made themselves available for interviews to further discuss the importance of this initiative.

These discussions are expected to provide valuable insights and practical tips for staying safe during the colder months.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Stop Tour 2024 represents a significant effort to raise awareness about fire safety, particularly in the winter months.

With a disturbing rise in fire-related fatalities early in the year, this initiative underscores the importance of education and preparedness.

It brings to light the need for individuals and families to be both fire safe and #WinterReady.

The tour, along with the upcoming Department of Homeland Security’s Extreme Cold Summit, signifies a united approach towards tackling winter vulnerabilities and promoting safety.

These efforts reflect a commitment to reducing the devastating impact of fires, particularly during a time of year when the risks are heightened.

National emergency alert test conducted by FEMA and FCC

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsAmericas - Featured NewsFeatured News

On 4th October, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in partnership with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), executed a nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

The test message commenced at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET, being sent to mobile phones through WEA and broadcasted to radio and television stations via EAS.

Purpose and outcome of the emergency alert test

The primary objective of this test was to gauge the efficiency of FEMA’s public alert and warning systems in relaying an emergency message across the nation.

It also aimed to assess the operational readiness of the infrastructure responsible for distributing a national message to the citizens.

All mobile carriers involved in the WEA system received the alert.

Furthermore, the EAS test alert was effectively processed and subsequently made accessible to broadcasters.

FEMA seeks feedback and analysis: Emergency alert test

In an effort to gather insights regarding the geographic reach of the WEA Alert Message, FEMA is spearheading a survey.

The outcomes of this survey will equip FEMA, the FCC, and public safety officials with valuable information, thereby assisting them in refining and augmenting the WEA system.

The EAS Test Reporting System will be the primary source for determining the population outreach of the EAS test.

Both FEMA and the FCC will analyse this data, with results potentially taking up to four months to be finalised.

About the national test

The main thrust behind the national test is to ascertain the efficacy of the Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System in alerting the public during emergencies, especially those of national significance.

All prominent US wireless providers, who are part of the WEA system, will circulate the national test to their users.

Mobile phones that are active and within the proximity of an operational cell tower affiliated with a participating wireless provider were expected to receive this test.

While wireless providers will disseminate the national test over a span of 30 minutes, individuals should only receive it a single time.

IFSJ Comment

The comprehensive testing of alert systems on a national scale signifies a robust commitment to safety and preparedness.

In the evolving landscape of emergency management, ensuring that alerts reach a wide audience, with minimal delay, is crucial.

By evaluating the effectiveness and reach of these systems, agencies like FEMA and FCC demonstrate their dedication to refining communication mechanisms.

Feedback from these tests can directly influence future strategies, ensuring that when a real emergency occurs, the public is well-informed and ready to act.

FEMA’s Mitigation Assessment Team publishes initial findings following a wildfire

by AmericasFeatured NewsWildland Fire

In a recent development, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) has unveiled their inaugural report assessing the effects of the 2021 Marshall Fire.

Highlighting risks in the wildland urban interface

The decision to scrutinise this specific fire stemmed from a desire to better comprehend the risks posed by certain weather conditions and their impacts on the constructed environment, especially in nontraditional wildland urban interfaces.

Both local and national planners, developers, and officials, as well as the general public, need to gain a deeper understanding of these risks.

Factors that exacerbated the Marshall Fire

A confluence of factors contributed to the vast damage caused by the Marshall Fire. These include:

  • Winds reaching speeds of up to 115 mph.
  • Persistent drought conditions.
  • Abnormally high temperatures.
  • Shortcomings in existing wildfire safety and planning regulations.

The inferno resulted in the devastation of 1,000 homes and commercial properties in places like Louisville, Superior, and parts of unincorporated Boulder County in Colorado.

This was no ordinary incident: what started as a quick-spreading grass fire escalated into a damaging urban blaze, impacting multiple communities and the broader Boulder County region.

Mitigation Assessment: Key observations

The FEMA Building Science Disaster Support Programme, in response to the unprecedented nature of the incident, sent out its first-ever wildfire MAT to study building performance during the fire.

The report offers keen insights into:

  • The role of building components in either preventing or exacerbating the spread of fire to structures.
  • The heightened vulnerability of neighbourhoods where homes are separated by less than 30 feet.
  • The discovery that unchecked drainage ditches in the vicinity acted as conduits for the fire, speeding up its progression through the community.

For those interested in delving deeper, the report and its seven supplementary documents are readily available.

These materials are essential for planners, fire departments, and community leaders aiming to enhance wildfire planning and mitigation efforts, covering both structural and landscaping enhancements.

IFSJ Comment

The release of FEMA’s Mitigation Assessment Team report on the Marshall Fire provides invaluable insights.

This ground-breaking study not only sheds light on the specific conditions and factors contributing to the severity of the Marshall Fire but also offers key observations which can inform future fire mitigation strategies.

By understanding how specific building components interact with fires or how certain landscape features can accelerate fire spread, planners and developers can make informed decisions.

It serves as a wake-up call for regions across the globe to prioritise planning and regulatory measures in the face of changing environmental conditions.

The detailed findings and accompanying documents have the potential to revolutionise wildfire mitigation projects, setting a new benchmark in fire safety and planning.

New tool launched to tackle home fire fatalities and social vulnerability

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The US Fire Administration (USFA) has recently unveiled the Home Fire Fatalities and Social Vulnerability Explorer, a tool to shed light on fire risk and vulnerability across the United States.

This innovation is a part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Geospatial Resource Center, a world-class resource platform for emergency managers, researchers, and other professionals in the field of public health and safety. The link to this platform can be found here.

Combatting home fire fatalities through data assessment

This Social Vulnerability Explorer augments USFA’s pre-existing home fire fatalities data set.

It incorporates the Social Vulnerability Index data, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

The tool’s main objective is to help evaluate potential underlying factors that could contribute to home fire fatalities.

Addressing fire risks in vulnerable communities

Moreover, this tool will increase awareness about fire risks and vulnerability on national, state, and county scales.

It is designed to aid communities in developing focused efforts to combat fire hazards within vulnerable communities and at-risk groups.

Accessing the Social Vulnerability Explorer is straightforward. You can locate it on USFA’s Home Fire Fatalities in the News page or by navigating to FEMA’s Geospatial Resource Center and selecting “Structure Fire” from the “Hazard Pages” menu.

Home fire fatalities: understanding the issue

Since 2012, USFA has been gathering information on home fire fatalities. Data is compiled through daily online searches of US news media reports, making it available to the public in near-real time.

This data is utilised to raise awareness about the perils of fire and the regularity of home fire deaths.

An enhanced data set for home fire fatalities and social vulnerability

The Social Vulnerability Explorer significantly bolsters the original home fire fatalities data set from the USFA.

This combined resource presents an interactive map to help raise awareness of fire risk and vulnerability at various geographical scales.

IFSJ Comment

The launch of this tool is a significant step towards employing data-driven approaches to understand and mitigate fire risks, particularly among socially vulnerable communities.

It provides a unique intersection of home fire fatalities and social vulnerability data, offering professionals a nuanced and comprehensive overview to better tailor their prevention and response strategies.

US Fire Administration publishes comprehensive recruitment and retention guide

by AmericasFeatured News

In response to the urgent need for effective strategies in recruiting and retaining volunteers for emergency services, the US Fire Administration (USFA) has released a comprehensive manual, aptly named “Retention and Recruitment for the Volunteer Emergency Services.”

A holistic approach to recruitment and retention challenges

Acknowledging the significant role volunteer fire and emergency medical services (EMS) departments play in community safety, the USFA aims to provide tools and insights to navigate the persistent challenge of securing and maintaining a dedicated volunteer base. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the number of volunteer firefighters has decreased markedly from 897,750 in 1984 to 676,900 in 2020. To reverse this trend, the guide takes a comprehensive approach, identifying and tackling the factors that contribute to such a decline including time demands, increased training requirements, and leadership issues.

Chief Richard Patrick, director of the National Fire and EMS Division at the USFA, stated: “By addressing critical challenges, collaborating with local governments, implementing effective recruitment and retention strategies, and providing guidance on marketing, data utilisation and funding, this manual offers a comprehensive resource for volunteer departments to overcome obstacles and ensure the continued safety and protection of their communities.”

Building bridges with local government

A significant component of the guide delves into the relationship between volunteer departments and local governments. As local governments have the responsibility to provide fire protection services, the manual focuses on the need for effective collaboration and shared responsibility to ensure the necessary support, particularly in terms of funding, is secured.

Insightful recruitment strategies

The guide also brings into focus recruitment strategies for volunteer fire and emergency services. These strategies emphasise locating potential volunteers, outlining effective onboarding processes, and understanding the impact of department culture and image on recruitment. The manual further highlights the importance of cultivating diversity and inclusivity within the ranks of the departments for them to better serve their diverse communities.

Retention strategies for a diverse and inclusive volunteer force

The USFA manual also extensively covers retention strategies, proposing an annual retention assessment to keep up to date with the evolving needs of volunteers and potential issues. A wide array of topics, from effective leadership and health and safety considerations to volunteer benefits and family support, are covered to ensure a comprehensive approach to volunteer retention.

Additionally, sections on marketing, data-driven recruitment, and retention efforts and funding strategies are also included in the manual.

In providing such an extensive manual, the USFA is ensuring that volunteer departments have the resources they need to attract and retain dedicated volunteers. By implementing the strategies and practices laid out in the guide, these departments are better equipped to fulfil their crucial role in community safety.

Safety warning issued over wildland fire shelters

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s Equipment Technology Committee has released a safety warning concerning wildland fire shelters PDF sold on the open market that do not meet U.S. Forest Service specification 5100-606 PDF requirements.

A wildland fire shelter is a portable, rapidly deployable shelter that looks somewhat like an oversized sleeping bag. If a wildfire suddenly changes direction or speed and a firefighter becomes trapped by flames, their last resort may be to deploy and enter a fire shelter for protection against radiant heat and smoke.

As critical pieces of life-saving equipment, fire shelters must be built to strict specifications to prevent serious injury or death in the event of an entrapment or burnover.

All fire shelters, regardless of supplier, should be inspected upon receipt to ensure that: The shelter is built to specification 5100-606; all shelter components are accounted for; the shelter meets specification requirements; and the shelter was not damaged during shipping or storage.

The safety warning contains detailed instructions and photos to guide firefighters on what to look for when inspecting their fire shelter to determine if it does or does not meet the 5100-606 specification. Safety concerns include:

  • Untested shelters constructed with materials that don’t meet the Forest Service specification requirements may release hazardous toxicants to the shelter occupant.
  • Shelters with deviations from the 5100-606 specification may result in the shelter not deploying as designed.

The Group also advised that any non-FedMall fire shelter purchases should be inspected to verify they are built to specification 5100-606 and any which do not carry on the fireline any fire shelter that does not meet the requirements should be removed from service.