Standards For

Interagency Hotsho

Crew Operati

Department of the Inter

Bureau of Land Managemen

National Park Ser

BUREAU of Ind

Department of Agricul

Forest Servic
STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS 

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER 

3833 S. Development Avenue 

Boise, Idaho 83705-5354 

January 21, 2016 

To: Agency Personnel 

From: Fire and Aviation Directors; 

Bureau of Land Management 

Forest Service 

National Park Service 

Bureau of Indian Affairs 

Subject: Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations 

In 2015 the National Interagency Hotshot Crew Steering Committee undertook an effort to update the Standards for 

Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations (SJHCO). These updated standards reflect changes in minimum crew 

standards and address changes in IHC certification processes since the last update in 2007. Crews will meet the 

minimum standards and be in full compliance with the certification process found in this document to be considered 

an Interagency Hotshot Crew. It will remain in effect until revised or rescinded. 

Please note that the revised nationally accepted process for certification ofnew Interagency Hotshot Crews is 

outlined in Chapter 5 with required supporting documentation and forms provided in Appendices B, C and E. 

The annual requirement for existing Interagency Hotshot Crews is outlined in Chapter 5 with required supporting 

documentation and forms provided in Appendices B and C. 

The contents ofthis standard are not to be modified. Supplemental agency specific direction ofa more restrictive 

nature may be issued separately. 

S(gned by: 

Ron Dunton 

Assistant Director, Fire & Aviation, Bureau of Land Management 

Dalan Romero 

Associate Director Bureau oflndian Affairs, Fire Operations, NIFC 

1 
Dan Buckley 

Branch Chief, Wildland Fire, National Park Service 

<b ~ c11,,_+,,.,q) 

Signed by: 

Kim Christensen 

Assistant Director, Operations, Fire & Aviation Management, Forest Service 

Signed by 

Brian Cardoza 

National IHC Steering Committee Chair 

2 
3 

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTERS

1- DEFINITION, POLICY AND IHC MISSION STATEMENT .......................................................... 4 

2- STANDARDS AND QUALIFICATIONS ............................................................................................ 6 

3- TRAINING .............................................................................................................................................. 8 

4- SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................ 12 

5- CREW CERTIFICATION AND MOBILIZATION ........................................................................ 14 

APPENDICES

A- MINIMUM CREW STANDARDS FOR NATIONAL MOBILIZATION...........................17 

B- ANNUAL IHC PREPAREDNESS REVIEW...............................................................18 

C- ANNUAL IHC MOBILIZATION CHECKLIST.........................................................25 

D- NATIONAL IHC STEERING COMMITTEE CHARTER.............................................26 

E- PEER REVIEW FOR INTIAL CERTIFICATION OF IHCS..........................................28 
4 

CHAPTER 1

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

DEFINITION, POLICY AND IHC MISSION STATEMENT

DEFINITION

Interagency Hotshot Crews (IHC) are nationally available Type 1 hand crews within the Incident 

Command System meeting the minimum standards and in compliance with the certification process found 

in this document. IHC are a national shared resource, statused and assigned through the National 

Interagency Coordination Center.

POLICY

Sponsor agencies shall provide direction, support, and review processes that ensure IHC operations are 

safe, effective, and meet the IHC operations standards as outlined in this document. The National IHC 

Steering Committee will facilitate any proposed revisions to these standards under the direction of the 

IHC Sponsor Agency Fire Directors. 

OBJECTIVE

The Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations provides the standard for IHC operations. 

These standards are to be used by IHC leadership, agency administrators and first line supervisors, for 

planning, administering and conducting IHC operations. These standards are to be used as a measure of 

IHC qualifications. 

IHC MISSION STATEMENT

The primary mission of the IHCs is to provide a safe, professional, mobile and highly skilled hand crew 

for all phases of fire management and incident operations. 

PROGRAM EMPHASIS

IHCs can be used to meet management objectives other than their primary mission of wildland fire 

operations. Utilization of IHCs will be initiated with strict compliance to accept interagency and agency 

specific safety standards. Responsibility for compliance with these standards and the safe operation of an 

IHC ultimately lies with the IHC superintendent. The priority for use of IHCs is as follows:

Wildland Fire Incident Operations

IHCs are staffed, conditioned, equipped and qualified to meet a variety of strategic and tactical 

wildland fire assignments. The organizational structure allows IHCs to form into small modules or 

squads and accomplish independent incident assignments. IHCs may be prepositioned for initial 

attack or perform ready reserve duties as required by national planning level requirements. 

All Hazard Incident Operations

Within the limits of their experience and qualifications, IHCs are capable of providing a disciplined, 

self-contained and adaptable workforce to meet the needs of incident managers in a variety of 

situations and during all hazard assignments.

Resource Management Objectives

When not committed to fire assignments, IHCs can provide a workforce to accomplish a variety of 

resource management objectives while maintaining availability for incident mobilization.
5

Training Cadres

IHC can provide a high quality cadre for fire management training at local, geographic area and 

national levels.

PROFESSIONAL ETHICS

IHC acknowledge their responsibility to sponsor agencies and to the wildland fire community as a whole. 

IHCs subscribe to a Code of Ethics to guide them in their practice as wildland fire professionals. IHCs 

will:

• Perform only services they are qualified, trained, and equipped in which can be accomplished 

safely. Continue to educate themselves in order to improve their qualifications and performance. 

Give earnest effort and provide their best professional advice in the performance of their duties.

• Build their professional reputations based on the leadership values of duty, respect and integrity. 

Ensure the quality and cost effectiveness of each IHC. Be accountable to host unit supervisors, 

incident management teams, other IHC and to host units as a safe, productive and professional 

resource.

• Conduct themselves and crews in accordance with the Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew 

Operations, relevant Agency, State and Federal policies and all required operational and safety 

procedures.

• Ensure the civil rights of constituents and employees by treating every person with respect. 

Hazing, harassment of any kind, verbal abuse or physical abuse by any employee toward any 

other person will not be tolerated. Professional behavior will be exhibited at all times.

• Endeavor to enhance public knowledge and promote understanding of the functions and 

achievements of the wildland fire community.

GEOGRAPHIC AREA IHC STEERING COMMITTEES

Geographic Area IHC Steering Committees will provide the IHC community, fire managers and agency 

administrators a means for proactive problem and issue resolution at the local level. Geographic Area 

IHC Steering Committees will promote safe, effective IHC operations and strive to ensure consistent 

adherence to area and national fire management policies.

Elected representatives will act as a guiding body and unified voice for all area IHCs. Each Geographic 

Area IHC Steering Committee will be chartered under the local Geographic Area Coordinating Group. 

Each agency will continue to provide specific program management and oversight for their respective 

crews.

NATIONAL IHC STEERING COMMITTEE

The National IHC Steering Committee will provide the IHC community, fire managers and agency 

administrators a means for proactive problem and issue resolution at the national level. The National IHC 

Steering Committee will promote safe and effective IHC operations and strive to ensure consistent 

adherence to national fire management policies.

Elected representatives will act as a guiding body and unified voice for all IHCs on matters of national 

scope. The National IHC Steering Committee will be chartered under the IHC sponsor agency National 

Fire Directors.
6

CHAPTER 2

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

STANDARDS AND QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM IHC MOBILIZATION STANDARDS

For mobilization to an incident Interagency Hotshot Crews, will at a minimum:

• The standard crew size is 20-22. A minimum of 18 fireline-qualified personnel is required for 

mobilization. 

• Have 80% of the crew members with at least one previous season of fire experience.

• Have four (4) certified as FAL2 per crew, with 50% of the crew certified as FAL3 or better.

• Have a minimum of seven (7) permanently assigned leadership.

• Have an assigned availability period with a minimum of 90 consecutive calendar days (including 

required days off).

• Work and train together a minimum of 40 hours per week during their availability period.

• Be able to mobilize within 2 hours of receipt of orders during their availability period.

• Be available for incident assignments with no geographic restrictions.

• Have the ability to break down into a minimum of three squads for initial attack and/or other 

independent operations.

• Have assigned vehicles, hand tools, power saws and communications equipment configured for 

their needs.

• Have a minimum of eight (8) programmable radios.

• Be logistically self-sufficient utilizing credit card or agency purchasing authority.

• When mobilizing via commercial or charter airline to an incident and the crew is authorized to 

transport crew vehicles, not have the staffing of the crew at the incident drop below 18 firelinequalified personnel without approval from the ordering unit.

• When mobilizing via commercial or charter airline to an incident the crew will not have more 

than 20 personnel flying without prior approval from the National Interagency Coordination 

Center.

MINIMUM IHC LEADERSHIP STAFFING

IHC shall be staffed to provide skilled personnel to accomplish IHC mission objectives. IHC will 

maintain a minimum of seven permanent/career positions. This standard is based on the 1995 

Interagency Management Review Team Hotshot Action Plan. Apprentice Program positions that may be 

assigned to IHCs will be in addition to the minimum seven career positions.

Non-federal IHCs will meet the retention and qualification intent of this standard using equivalent 

employment authority within their sponsor agency human resource policy and the sponsor Geographic 

Area Coordinating Group. 

Minimum IHC leadership staffing will include the following positions as part of an IHC organization:

One Superintendent OR One Superintendent

One Assistant Superintendent/Captain Two Assistant Superintendents/Captains

Three Squad Leaders Two Squad Leaders

Two Senior Firefighters Two Senior Firefighters
7

POSITION DESCRIPTIONS

While specific job descriptions of leadership personnel may vary among IHCs, each crew will provide the 

personnel to perform the following functions:

Superintendent

• The superintendent is a permanent employee with administrative and supervisory skills to 

conduct training and sufficient fire experience to provide capable leadership to the crew. The 

superintendent is responsible for all hotshot crew program management activities including 

certification that the crew is available for incident assignment.

Assistant Superintendent/Captain

• Assists the superintendent in all aspects of crew management. 

• This is a career position.

Squad Leader

• Provides day-to-day leadership for squad members. It is their responsibility to keep the assistant 

superintendent/captain or superintendent informed on all aspects related to safe and effective 

crew operations. This is a career position.

Senior Firefighter

• Within the crew there are a minimum of two senior firefighters that are career positions.

Firefighter

• No more than 20% of the crew (4 positions) may be first year fire fighters. 

Upon mobilization, if for any reason one of the leadership positions is absent from the crew the person 

filling in behind them must meet the NWCG qualifications of the position they are filling in order to 

maintain IHC status. For example, the Superintendent is absent from the crew, the person filling in as the 

acting superintendent must meet the IHC Superintendent minimum qualification standards. 

Reference Chapter 3 for specific NWCG Incident Management Qualifications required for each position. 
8

CHAPTER 3

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

TRAINING

TRAINING PLAN

Each Interagency Hotshot Crew will establish a training plan to meet their mission objectives and address 

operational standards. The superintendent has the discretion to organize the training program to best fit 

the needs of a particular crew.

IHC REQUIRED MINIMUM INCIDENT MANAGEMENT QUALIFICATIONS AND 

TRAINING

The following are the required National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) training courses and 

qualifications for IHC personnel:

Position NWCG

Qualification Fire Training

Firefighter FFT2 I-100 Introduction to ICS

S-130 Firefighter Training

S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

L-180 Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service

Senior Firefighter FFT1 All the above plus:

S-211 Portable Pumps and Water Use

S-212 Wildland Fire Chain Saws

S-131 Firefighter Type 1

S-133 Look Up, Look Down, Look Around

S-270 Basic Air Operations

Squad Leader CRWB and

ICT5

All the above plus:

I-200 Basic ICS

S-215 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface

S-230 Crew Boss (Single Resource)

S-234 Ignition Operations

S-260 Interagency Incident Business Management

S-290 Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior

L-280 Followership to Leadership

Assistant 

Superintendent

or

Captain

STCR or TFLD

and CRWB 

and ICT4

All the above plus:

I-300 Intermediate ICS

S-200 Initial Attack Incident Commander

S-330 Task Force/Strike Team Leader

S-390 Introduction to Fire Behavior Calculations

L-380 Fireline Leadership

M-410 Facilitative Instructor or equivalent

Superintendent TFLD

and ICT4

and FIRB

All the above
9

ANNUAL TRAINING

All IHC personnel must receive 40 hours of Operational Preparedness Training as defined below to 

include classroom, field exercises and other fire related courses determined by the superintendent. This 

training must be completed prior to becoming available for incident assignment. All training shall be 

documented.

This training provides skills and knowledge that allows an IHC to perform safely and effectively in the all 

hazard incident environment. This is training that must be completed and recorded before a crew is 

available for any incident or prescribed fire assignment. Training will include, but is not limited to, 

agency specific fireline refresher, OSHA required safety training, firefighter safety, first aid, fire behavior 

and crew operating procedures.

Upon completion of this training, crewmembers will understand their professional responsibilities as a 

member of a team working in a high risk environment and be able to identify critical safety issues and 

demonstrate appropriate reactions to unsafe conditions.

OPERATIONAL PREPAREDNESS TRAINING

This training is not inclusive of agency specific administrative requirements. The final responsibility for 

crew availability will rest with the superintendent’s certification to management that all requirements are 

complete. The following are suggested training and in no way exclude other crew specific training:

Fire Behavior and Safety

• Incident Response Pocket Guide

• LCES, the Standard Firefighting Orders, Watch Out Situations, and Common Denominators

• Entrapment Avoidance

• Job Hazard Analysis System

• Firefighter Health (heat stress, nutrition, fatigue, smoke)

• Proper Gear and PPE

• Look Up, Look Down, Look Around

• Characteristics of Extreme Fire Behavior

• Basic Firing Operations

• Firefighter Safety in the Wildland/Urban Interface

• Hazard Tree Safety

• Predictive Services

Leadership Development and Human Factors

• 1995 Human Factors Workshop Findings

• Tactical Decision Games Library

• Staff Ride Library

• Professional Reading Program: each crew should offer a variety of leadership publications.

• Crew Cohesion Assessment

Lessons Learned

• Fatality Fire Case Studies

• Incident Reports and Lessons Learned Analyses

• Wildland Firefighter Fatalities in the United States

• High Reliability Organizations
10

Crew Organization

• Standard Operating Procedures

• Chain of command

• Configuration for smaller unit operation

Intra-Crew Communication

• Briefing

• Debriefing with AAR’s

• Identification of hazards

• Sending messages and asking for clarification

• Handheld radio protocol and operations

Transportation

• Fixed-wing transport

• Helicopter transport

• Ground transport

FIELD EXERCISES

In addition to the classroom portion of the training program, crewmembers will be required to 

demonstrate their physical ability to perform arduous duties while in the field. Field exercises give crew 

leadership an opportunity to observe, assess, instruct and evaluate individual crewmembers in the field 

work environment. It also provides crew leaders the opportunity to develop intra-crew communication 

and stress the basics of tool use and field safety. It gives crewmembers an opportunity to familiarize 

themselves with crew operations, practice proper and safe tool use and develop crew cohesion. Field 

exercises are essential for team building. The following are suggested field exercise scenarios and in no 

way exclude other drills: 

Cut and scrape as a crew

• Tool orders

• Saw operations

Small module operation/split configuration

• Hot spotting

• Spot fires

• Firing and holding

Medivac procedures

• First aid/CPR and initial assessment

• 9-line training or current equivalent 

• Establishing helispot

• Extrication of injured crewmember

Fire shelter use

• Entrapment avoidance

• Withdrawal to escape routes and safety zones

• Individual and group deployment (planned and hasty)

• Drop gear and go/ two in one shelter/ high wind
11

Interface operations

• Structure assessment and triage

• Tactics for hand crews

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED MINIMUM TRAINING

This is training to be accomplished based on crew and individual needs identified by the superintendent. 

Specific training objectives can be met through NWCG courses, other classroom training, on the job 

training or task book position assignments.

FITNESS TRAINING

As a part of the fire line performance required of IHCs, the physical ability to perform arduous labor is 

critical to crew morale, personal health and safety standards. As part of the training program for IHCs, all 

crew personnel will be required to participate in a minimum of 1 hour of fitness training, 5 days a week, 

during unassigned periods.

The fitness training program will focus on stretching, aerobic fitness and strength building. All IHC 

personnel shall meet the sponsor agency’s current Work Capacity Test (WCT) fitness standard for fire 

line personnel. All IHC crew members should strive to meet the Fitness and Work Capacity, 3rd edition

by Dr. Brian Sharkey:

• 1.5 mile run in a time of 10:35 or less

• 40 sit-ups in 60 seconds

• 25 pushups in 60 seconds

• Chin-ups, based on body weight:

 More than 170 lbs. = 4 chin-ups

 135-170 lbs. = 5 chin-ups

 110-135 lbs. = 6 chin-ups

 Less than 110 lbs. = 7 chin-ups
12

CHAPTER 4

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS

HOST UNIT SUPPORT

IHC require management oversight, administrative support and facilities to accomplish their mission. 

IHC are available to assist the host unit with other resource management objectives when not assigned to 

incidents or conducting training. Host units benefit from the skills, knowledge and abilities of crew 

personnel. IHC are available to assist the sponsor agency in accomplishing its mission in addition to 

instructing a variety of local, geographic area and national fire management courses.

MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

The local host unit first line supervisor and the agency administrator shall:

• Certify the crew is ready for incident assignment using the Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist 

(Appendix C) prior to national availability.

• Ensure completion of an Annual IHC Preparedness Review (Appendix B) on an annual basis.

• Assist in career development and training of crew personnel.

• Ensure that crew health, safety and welfare needs are addressed.

When establishing a new IHC program, the host unit is responsible for the requirements listed in the 

Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations and facilitating the IHC Certification Process, found 

in Chapter 5.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

The local host unit first line supervisor and the agency administrator are responsible to provide 

administrative support such as personnel management, time and attendance, travel, purchasing and fleet 

management.

FACILITIES

The local host unit first line supervisor and agency administrator are responsible to provide adequate 

facilities for the crew including: office space, crew ready room, access to physical training facilities, 

equipment storage and fire cache.

INCIDENT SUPPORT

IHCs are self-contained and self-sufficient in most aspects. The ordering incident will be expected to 

supply the IHCs with needed supplies depending on method of transport. IHCs are required to arrive at 

the incident with a complete inventory of all non-cache items approved for crew use by the local unit.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

When ordering IHCs by ground transportation, they will come equipped to the following minimum 

standards:

• Assigned crew vehicles

• Assigned mobile/handheld communication equipment

• Four (4) chain saws with fuel

• Firing equipment

• Hand tools

• Water handling equipment

• All required overnight gear
13

• First aid and trauma kits

• Drinking water and food for 48 hours

• GPS/Cell Phone

COMMERCIAL OR CHARTER AIR TRANSPORTATION

When IHCs are delivered by aircraft the receiving unit will need to provide the following:

• Crew personnel transportation/separate vehicles for transportation of saws, fuel and hand tools

• Firing equipment (minimum 2 cases of fusees, 4 drip torches w/fuel)

• Hand tools

• Four chainsaws with 28” bar

• 10 gallons unmixed gas

• 5 gallons of bar oil

• 2 cycle mix for 10 gallons of gas

• 50 gallons of drinking water and 10 cases of MREs
14

CHAPTER 5

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

CREW CERTIFICATION AND MOBILIZATION

ANNUAL CREW READINESS REVIEW 

On an annual basis the superintendent of crews holding IHC status the previous season are required to 

complete the Annual IHC Preparedness Review (appendix B). This process is designed to evaluate crew 

preparedness and compliance with the Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations.

The annual review will be conducted while the crew is fully staffed and operational. This review is not 

required prior to a crew being made available for incident assignment at the beginning of their availability 

period.

The completed Appendix B will be kept on file at the local host unit fire management office.

ANNUAL CREW PRE-MOBILIZATION PROCESS 

All IHC are required to complete the Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist (appendix C) and send the 

completed document to the local GACC prior to making the crew available for national mobilization each 

season.

CREW CERTIFICATION PROCESS

Crew programs seeking to be certified as an IHC will use the following process:

1) A crew requesting IHC status must complete an imbedded review. This review is conducted by a 

current or past IHC Superintendent (not from the home unit) who will imbed with the crew 

seeking IHC status on a fire assignment. The imbedded reviewer will provide a written evaluation 

of the crew which includes a recommendation to the crew’s host Geographic Area Operations 

Committee if the crew is deemed ready for a certification review.

2) The requesting crew superintendent and their host unit first line supervisor shall complete a draft 

of the Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist (appendix C) and the Annual IHC Preparedness 

Review (appendix B) to ensure the crew’s readiness for certification. 

3) When Appendix C and Appendix B are complete, the requesting crew host unit or hosting agency 

will contact the dispatching GACC who will contact the Geographic Area IHC Steering 

Committee chair to initiate IHC certification.

4) The crew has Peer Review for Initial Interagency Hotshot Crew Certification forms (appendix E) 

and incident performance appraisals completed during incident assignments.

5) Certification team will be assembled and a team leader identified.

6) Date of certification will be negotiated and confirmed.

a. The host unit is responsible for arranging accommodations and providing logistical 

support for the certification team.

b. The certification team will in brief with requesting crew superintendent and host unit fire 

leadership/supervisors to discuss objectives and agenda for review.

c. Certification team will meet with requesting crew for introductions and provide a briefing 

of planned activities and expectations.

d. A thorough review will be conducted of records, plans, crew evaluations, vehicles, 

facilities, equipment, safety, training, fitness, qualifications, etc.

e. Short-term individual simulations (i.e., sand table exercises, readiness) will be conducted.

f. Crew field simulation (drills), possibly with other resources involved (i.e., fireline 

construction, initial attack organization) will be conducted.
15

g. Requesting crew will conduct an “After Action Review”.

7) Certification team will make a recommendation on certification.

8) Certification team closes out with requesting crew and host unit.

9) Certification recommendation

a. If recommended for certification, the Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist Mobilization 

(appendix C) is signed by the team leader and forwarded to the Geographic Area 

Operations Committee. 

b. If not recommended, the Certification Team should identify the elements in which the 

crew did not meet the standard and discuss with the crew superintendent and host unit 

supervisor how the crew may attain those proficiencies in the future. 

10) If the Geographic Area Operations Committee endorses the certification recommendation they 

will issue the final certification documentation and notify the host agency, crew, and Geographic 

Area Coordinating Group (GACG). 

11) Final certification

a. The certification letter is forwarded by the GACG to the National Multi-Agency 

Coordination Group and the National Interagency Coordination Center. 

b. If not certified the documentation and a letter of items not meeting standards will be left 

with the host fire management unit.

CERTIFICATION TEAM MEMBERSHIP

The certification team will be comprised of at least four individuals, including a team leader:

• A current IHC superintendent

• A representative from the host unit’s agency not directly associated with the crew

• A unit fire management officer selected by the Geographic Area IHC Steering Committee

• A representative from the host Geographic Area Operations Committee

The team leader and at least one other member will be independent of the host unit. Certification will be 

based on compliance with the current Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations.

STATUS CHANGE

Integrity cannot be written into a document and it is impossible to address every conceivable scenario. It 

is the responsibility of the superintendent and first line supervisor and agency administrator to objectively 

assess their crew to see if they are meeting the standards for IHC contained in this document. They are 

duty bound to not misrepresent the IHC community. Leadership of the highest moral character is 

required during these decisions. 

Failure to meet the minimum requirements of the Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist (Appendix C) 

requires only a change in status (i.e. Type 2 I.A.). 

DECERTIFICATION 

In the event the crew does not meet the requirements of Appendix C within one calendar year from the 

date of change in status the crew and host unit agency shall:

1. Develop a plan to get the crew up to the IHC standard prior to the start of the next season; or

2. Decertify the crew.

3. If after 2 calendar years from the date in change in status the crew is unable to meet IHC 

standards a New Crew Certification process will be required (see above). 
16

 APP

 

 

 
17

APPENDIX A

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

MINIMUM CREW STANDARDS FOR NATIONAL MOBILIZATION

Minimum Standards Type 1 IHC Type 2 with IA 

Capability

Type 2

Fireline Capability Initial attack/can be broken up 

into squads, fire line 

construction, complex firing 

operations(backfire)

Initial attack/can be broken 

up into squads, fireline 

construction, firing to include 

burnout

Initial attack, fireline 

construction, firing as 

directed

Crew Size 18-22 18-20

Leadership 

Qualifications

Permanent Supervision

Supt: TFLD, ICT4, and FIRB

Asst Supt: STCR or TFLD

and CRWB and ICT4

3 Squad Leaders: CRWB and 

ICT5

2 Senior Firefighters: FFT1

Crew Boss: CRWB

3 Squad Bosses: ICT5

Crew Boss: CRWB

3 Squad Bosses: FFT1

Language Requirement All senior leadership including Squad Leaders and higher must be able to read and 

interpret the language of the crew as well as English.

Experience 80% 1 season 60% 1 season 20% 1 season

Full Time Organized Crew Yes

(work and train as a unit 40 

hrs. per week)

No No

Communications 8 programmable radios 4 programmable radios

Sawyers 4 certified as FAL2 and 50% 

of crew certified as FAL3 or 

better

3 agency qualified None

Training As required by the Standards 

for Interagency Hotshot Crew 

Operations or agency policy 

prior to assignment

Basic firefighter training 

and/or annual firefighter 

safety refresher prior to 

assignment

Basic firefighter training 

and/or annual firefighter 

safety refresher prior to 

assignment

Logistics Crew level agency purchasing 

authority

No purchasing authority No purchasing authority

Maximum Weight 5300 lbs.

Dispatch Availability Available nationally Available nationally Variable

Production Factor 1.0 .8 .8

Transportation Own transportation Transportation needed Transportation needed

Tools & Equipment Fully equipped Not equipped Not equipped

Personal Gear Arrives with: Crew First Aid kit, personal first aid kit, headlamp, 1 qtr. canteen, web gear, 

sleeping bag

PPE All standard designated fireline PPE

Certification Must be annually certified by 

the local host unit agency 

administrator or designee 

prior to being made available 

for assignment.

N/A N/A
18

APPENDIX B

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

ANNUAL IHC PREPAREDNESS REVIEW

The following document is designed to evaluate crew preparedness and compliance with the Standards for 

Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations (SIHCO). It will be used to review IHC programs annually while the crew is 

fully staffed and operational. This review is not required to verify that a crew is ready for incident assignment at the 

beginning of their availability period.

When a review is completed the document is to be kept on file at the local host unit fire management office.

Crew Name: Host Unit/Address:

IHC Personnel Roster (Name/Working Title): NWCG Qualifications

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22
19

Location: Date: 

Respondent: Reviewed By: 

Key Code: E = Exceeds Standard M = Meets Standard NI = Needs Improvement NR = Not Reviewed

Description Code Remarks

1 Crew meets Agency and National Standards for 

Organizational Requirements:

a. Superintendent

b. Assistant Superintendent/Captains

c. Squad Leaders

d. Senior Firefighters

e. Number of career positions (7 required)

2 Crew meets Agency and National Standards for:

a. Mobilization and dispatch time frames

b. Government purchase authority

c. Operational Preparedness Training

d. SIHCO and Red Book

3 Is the crew properly statused with the appropriate 

Geographic Area Coordination Center?

4 Has the local first line Supervisor, Agency 

Administrator and IHC Superintendent signed 

Appendix C? (SIHCO)

5 IHC has been trained on accident/injury notification 

procedures:

a. Vehicle Accident Reporting

b. SAFENET

c. SAFECOM

d. CA-1/CA-16/APMC

e. Safety Management Information System 

(SMIS) (SHIPS)

6 IHC regularly participates in documented tailgate 

safety sessions.

7 Unit Safety Plan is available and can be readily 

accessed.

8 IHC has Job Hazard Analysis completed for each fire 

related task.

9 IHC has Risk Assessment completed for each project 

task. (Agency requirement)

10 Radio operations meet requirements:

a. Minimum number of radios

b. Knowledge of radio programming 

(Narrow/Wide Band/Digital Frequencies)

c. Understand frequency authorization and use 

issues

d. Facility radio and speaker system

e. Approved local radio frequencies are posted
20

Description Code Remarks

11 IHC leadership is familiar with administrative issues 

and prepare and secure documents as per agency 

standards:

a. Time & Attendance

b. Crew time reports

c. Fire time reports

d. Per Diem forms

e. Accident reports

f. Credit card purchases and records

g. Fleet purchasing cards

12 IHC members meet the agency qualifications required 

of their positions.

13 Status (filled/vacant) of leadership positions within the 

approved Organizational Chart.

14 Leadership is familiar with air cargo transport 

limitations and requirements including:

a. Purging of gas receptacles

b. Air transport manifesting

c. Weight limitations

d. Safe packaging procedures for specialized 

equipment

e. Local security requirements and procedures

INCIDENT QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATION CONSIDERATIONS

15 The Incident Qualifications and Certification System 

is used to produce Red Card qualifications.

16 IHC members have current Red Cards.

17 IHC members have a documentation file for current 

season training, certification, and experience 

(Hardcopy or Electronic).

18 IHC members have a hard-copy file for past season 

fire training, fire experience, task books, performance 

evaluations and physical fitness.

19 Each IHC member who drives a government vehicle is 

current with agency required driving documentation.

20 IHC has access to training materials and equipment.

21 IHC members are current in annual firefighter safety 

refresher training.

22 IHC members have task books initiated appropriate to 

their training needs. (NWCG 310-1)

23 IHC members have documentation of currency with 

the agency medical standards.

24 IHC members have completed the following training 

as per agency requirements:

a. Defensive driving for drivers

b. First aid

c. CPR Certification 

d. Blood-borne pathogens

e. Hazardous materials 

awareness/MSDS(OSHA 29CFR/1910.1200 

& 29CFR 1910.120)
21

Description Code Remarks

25 IHC members have attended agency required 

employee orientation.

26 Each IHC member has reviewed and signed an 

Employee Performance Appraisal Plan (EPAP) for the 

current season.

27 Per agency standards IHC members participate in an 

established physical fitness program.

28 IHC is aware of and meets agency mobilization 

standards, including:

a. Mobilization and get-away time frames

b. Driver duty limitations

c. Work/rest requirements

29 IHC members possess commercial drivers’ license 

where appropriate.

FACILITIES

30 Annual Agency Safety Inspection is documented and 

complete.

31 Computer/fax/telephone equipment meets the needs of 

the IHC(s).

32 Facility has security for:

a. Personnel records (privacy act notice OS-76 

Item 43 schedule)

b. Government equipment

c. Personal equipment

33 Safety Equipment and Signing includes: (OSHA 

29CFR1910)

a. Fire Extinguisher

b. Smoke alarms

c. First aid kits

34 Storage of flammables/hazardous materials meets 

standards. (OSHA 29 CFR1910)

35 Bulletin board includes appropriate postings:

a. Unit and IHC organization charts.

b. Emergency Notification Procedures

c. 10 Standard Firefighting Orders

d. 18 Watch Out Situations

e. LCES

f. Facility fire plan

g. Fire danger information

h. Fire weather information

i. Smoking policy

j. Sexual harassment policy/EEO counselors

k. Department of Labor required information

36 Employee right-to-know information/Material Safety 

Data Sheet (MSDS) is posted.

CACHE

37 Inventory and use records are available and current.

38 Inventories are posted, dated, signed.

39 Cache is secure.
22

Description Code Remarks

40 Tools meet maintenance standards. (Fire Equipment 

and Storage and Refurbishing Standards NFES 2249)

41 Fire extinguisher service is current and location is 

identified in a highly visible manner.

VEHICLES

42 Preventive maintenance checks are documented and 

current.

43 If required by the agency an Annual Gross Vehicle 

Weight (GVW) slip from a certified scale is 

documented in logbook and meets vehicle 

specifications.

44 References/paperwork available include:

a. Accident report forms

b. Communications plan

c. Posted frequencies

d. Inventory (specific to compartment/location)

e. Use record current

f. Preventive maintenance records

g. Personnel accident/injury forms

h. Unit maps

i. Current North American Emergency 

Response Guide Book

j. Current credit card

45 Jack (serviceable for GVW).

46 Lug wrench (serviceable for vehicle).

47 Non-skid surface per (OSHA 29CFR1910)

48 Fire extinguisher service is current and location is 

identified in a highly visible manner.

49 Hazard reflectors/flares.

50 First aid/trauma kit is available and appropriate size; 

location is identified in a highly visible manner

PROFICIENCY CHECKS

This is a listing of skills that an IHC should have as a minimum. How the Proficiency Checks are conducted is up to the 

local unit. The intent is for the Superintendent and Reviewing Official to verify the crew being reviewed is proficient in 

these skill areas. This is a crew proficiency check, all items do not necessarily apply to all crewmembers

51 Basic Handcrew Tactics:

a. Handline construction

b. Chainsaw operations

c. Firing & holding organization

d. Mop-up & spot grid organization

e. Portable pump setup

f. Simple and progressive hoselays
23

Description Code Remarks

52 Specialized Handcrew Operations:

a. Lookouts and scouting

b. Hot spotting

c. Spot fire attack

d. Felling teams

e. Initial attack 

f. Structure protection

g. Medivac

h. Map/Compass/GPS navigation

53 Air Operations:

a. Fixed-wing transport of Crew

b. Helicopter passenger safety

c. Helicopter transport of flammables

d. Directing helicopter drops by radio

e. Helispot specifications

f. Longline/Hover hook operations

54 Demonstrated ability to make fire weather 

observations (using belt weather kit, accessing local 

daily forecast, using weather indicators to anticipate 

potential fire behavior).

55 Demonstrated ability to use two-way radios (Dispatch 

contact protocol, local call sign system, programmable 

radio procedures).

56 Demonstrated knowledge of basic individual 

communication responsibilities (briefings, debriefings, 

acknowledge messages, identify hazards, asking 

questions for clarification).

57 Demonstrated knowledge of the key components of 

the Fire Orders (LCES) and established protocol for 

Crew disengagement.

58 Demonstrated knowledge of the differences between a 

Safety Zone and a Deployment Zone.

59 Demonstrated ability to deploy fire shelters in various 

situations (individual, group, two people in one 

shelter, drop gear and run, with wind).

PREPAREDNESS REVIEW SUMMARY

Comments:
24

General preparedness of the crew:

Items which are deficient:

Corrective action to be taken:

I have reviewed the _____________________________ IHC program and certify the crew meets the requirements of 

the Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew Operations.

Crew Superintendent: __________________________________________

Reviewing Official: ____________________________________________

Signature and Title

Date: ________________________________
25

APPENDIX C

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

ANNUAL IHC MOBILIZATION CHECKLIST

The Annual IHC Mobilization Checklist will be completed by the IHC superintendent and approved by the first line 

supervisor and agency administrator. The signed document must be forwarded to the responsible GACC notifying 

them of crew availability. This checklist must be provided prior to national mobilization.

If at any time an IHC fails to meet the required red card qualifications or the superintendent, first line supervisor and 

or the agency administrator feels their crew is not meeting the intent of the Standards for Interagency Hotshot Crew 

Operations it is incumbent upon the crew superintendent to re-status the crew.

The IHC will be required to have a change in status per crew typing in the Minimum Crew Standards for National 

Mobilization (appendix A). The superintendent is responsible for informing the first line supervisor, agency 

administrator and the local GACC of any required changes in the crews typing. The use of this form (Appendix C) 

will be utilized as the mechanism to re-status the crew. 

(In the event of a change in status, the crew and host unit agency has one calendar year to re-status the crew as an 

IHC otherwise the host unit agency should consider decertification of the crew.) 

REQUIRED IHC STAFFING

This table designates employees in leadership positions on the IHC being certified for mobilization. A minimum of 

seven (7) career positions or fully qualified personnel are required for certification as defined in Chapter 2:

Position Fully Qualified Career 

Employee (Name)

Fully Qualified Detailed 

Employee (Name)

Current NWCG

Qualifications

Superintendent

Asst Supt or Captain

Captain or Squad Leader

Squad Leader

Squad Leader

Senior Firefighter

Senior Firefighter

TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION

Have all crewmembers completed Operational Preparedness Training? Yes ________ No ________

Do all crewmembers have a current Incident Qualifications Card? Yes ________ No ________

PREPAREDNESS

Does the IHC meet mobilization standards defined in Chapter 2? Yes _______ No ________

Does the crew have dedicated transportation and the required fire equipment? Yes _______ No ________

Has the crew undergone an annual preparedness review? Yes _______ No ________

The ________________________________________________ IHC program is available for national assignment.

IHC Superintendent __________________________________________________ Date ______________

IHC first line Supervisor and Title ____________________________________ __ Date ______________

IHC Agency Administrator and Title _________________________________ ___ Date ______________

Other (Optional) Date 
26

APPENDIX D

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

NATIONAL INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW STEERING COMMITTEE 

CHARTER

CHARTER AUTHORITY

The National Interagency Hotshot Crew (IHC) Steering Committee will function under the authority of 

the IHC Sponsor Agency Directors and/or Fire Directors.

MISSION

The National IHC Steering Committee will provide the IHC community, fire managers, and agency 

administrators a means for proactive problem and issue resolution; will promote safe and effective IHC 

operations and will strive to ensure consistent adherence to national fire management policies. 

Interagency Hotshot Crews are those crews identified as National Shared Resources.

OBJECTIVE

The National IHC Steering Committee will assist fire managers, agency administrators, and IHCs in the 

management of the hotshot program through solicitation, review and validation of input and concerns 

relating to fire operations that are national in scope. The Steering Committee will facilitate the exchange 

of information between the above groups.

STEERING COMMITTEE COMPOSITION

The Steering Committee will consist of 16 standing members to include the following:

• Five Operations representatives appointed from each agency. 

 The U.S. Forest Service (USFS)

 The Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

 The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)

 The National Park Service (NPS)

The following steering committee members will operate under the consensus model:

• Three IHC Superintendents representing Department of Interior agencies.

 One representing BLM crews

 One representing BIA crews

 One representing NPS crews

• One IHC Superintendent representing the non-federal crews.

• Seven USFS IHC Superintendents selected by the IHC Superintendents in these Regions:

 One representing the Northern Rockies Region

 One representing the Pacific Northwest Region

 One representing the Intermountain Region

 One representing the Pacific Southwest Region

 One representing the Southwest Region

 One representing the Eastern and Southern Region

 One representing the Rocky Mountain Region
27

CONSENSUS MODEL

Decision Making Process

1. A quorum consisting of at least 9 voting members of the IHC Steering Committee is required to 

conduct official business

2. The IHC Steering Committee will utilize consensus in the decision making process. For the 

purpose of this document, consensus is defined to be: "All voting committee members can fully 

support the decision although it may not be their personal choice or preference."

3. When consensus cannot be reached, the reason(s) must be clearly articulated. The steering 

committee can:

a. Table the issue until the next predetermined meeting, at which time it will be revisited, or

b. Refer the issue to an existing working team or task group with a specific task order to address 

concerns in an attempt to clarify and resolve obstacles.

4. If after reconsideration, consensus is not resolved, the Chair of the steering committee will 

elevate the item to the agency Operations representatives for resolution.

CHAIRPERSON 

A Chairperson and Co-Chair will be elected for a 2-year term from the superintendents listed above.

ELECTION PROCESS 

Elections will be held at the beginning of the National IHC Steering Committee meeting. Committee 

members will nominate the new chair and co-chair, outgoing chair will facilitate the election process.

MEMBERSHIP TENURE 

IHC Superintendents serve a 4-year term that can be extended with the support of their agency sponsors. 

Agency committee members serve at the pleasure of their selecting sponsor.

MEETING FREQUENCY 

The National IHC Steering Committee will meet annually, at a minimum. Meetings will be conducted in 

the various geographic areas; technical specialists may be invited to participate.

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS 

The National IHC Steering Committee will facilitate the process for any national IHC operations

standards revisions under the direction of the IHC Sponsor Agency Fire Directors.

NATIONAL IHC WORKSHOP 

The National IHC Steering Committee will recommend the need for and timing of National IHC 

workshops.
28

APPENDIX E

STANDARDS FOR INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT CREW OPERATIONS

PEER REVIEW FOR INITIAL CERTIFICATION OF INTERAGENCY HOTSHOT 

CREWS

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

CORPORATE KNOWLEDGE

Communications - Sharing information

Comments

Crew clearly understands and demonstrates the knowledge 

expected of Type 1 crews. Crew shares critical information 

in a timely manner utilizing the appropriate vernacular for 

the situation.

• Face to face and radio communications are 

accurate, concise and respectful.

• Intra and intercrew communications are maintained 

and appropriate for the situation.

• Crew clearly understands and utilizes “Trigger 

Points” and “Trip Wires” and makes them know to 

all affected resources.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

CORPORATE KNOWLEDGE

Strategy and Tactics

Comments

Crew clearly understands the overall incident strategy and 

control objectives. Crew selects the correct tactics to meet 

the control objectives and is able to adjust their tactics as the 

situation warrants. 

• Crew demonstrates knowledge of line placement 

and standards.

• Crew demonstrates knowledge of water use and 

hoselays.

• Crew demonstrates extensive knowledge in the use 

of portable pumps.

Contact Phone #
29

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

CORPORATE KNOWLEDGE

Mobilization - Travel: Ground/Air

Comments

Crew has been mobilized inside/outside of region and they 

clearly demonstrate an understanding of travel policies and 

guidelines.

• Crew has driven to incidents and demonstrates a 

clear understanding of policies and procedures 

associated with this type of mobilization

• Crew has flown in contract aircraft demonstrating a 

clear understanding of policies and procedures 

associated with this type of mobilization

• Crew has flown commercially and prepared and 

secured equipment and personnel in accordance 

with airport security policies

• Crew has “chased” the buggies and still maintains 

minimum expectations/standards of receiving units

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Line Construction – Hotline Comments

Crew was engaged in a “Hotline” assignment of significant 

duration, (# of hours/shifts) crew performed efficiently and 

effectively adhering to all applicable rules of engagement. 

The quality, quantity and location of their line were 

commensurate to the conditions.

• Crew briefing was conducted and included 

assignment objectives and LCES

• Personnel, tools and equipment were adequate for 

the conditions

• Escape Routes and Safety Zones were adequate for 

the conditions and known by all crewmembers

• Crew overhead and crewmembers appeared to have 

good Situational Awareness

• Crew conducted effective and well organized After 

Action Review

Contact Phone #
30

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Line Construction - Cold Trail Comments

Crew clearly demonstrated an understanding of the concept, 

utilizing the appropriate techniques of securing, mopping up 

and lining hot spots adjacent to the fires edge.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with Engines Comments

• Crew worked with water handling equipment 

coordinating with and supporting fire engine crews. 

• Crew briefing was conducted which included 

assignment objectives, hazards, communications, 

lookouts, escape routes, and safety zones.

• Crewmembers assisted engine companies in setting 

up engine operations.

• Crewmembers looked for water sources (ponds, 

pools, stand pipes, etc.) set up portable pumps and 

hose lays.

• Crew utilized working lines in combination with 

hand tools to suppress and/or mop up fire activity.

• Crew personnel maintained good communications 

and were accounted for at all times.

• Crew maintained good situational awareness 

dealing with fire activity and hazards. LCES was 

maintained.

Contact Phone #
31

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Line Construction – Downhill Comments

Crew participated in a downhill line construction operation. 

LCES was in place and maintained for the duration of the 

operation.

• Crew supervisor(s) and fireline overhead will 

discuss assignments prior to committing crew(s). 

Responsible overhead individual will stay with job 

until completed. (Minimum TFLD or ICT4)

• Decision will be made after proposed fireline has 

been scouted by supervisor(s) of involved crew(s).

• LCES will be coordinated for all personnel 

involved.

 Crew supervisor(s) is in direct contact with 

lookout that can see the fire.

 Communication is established between all 

crews.

 Rapid access to safety zones in case fire 

crosses below crew(s).

• Direct attack will be used whenever possible.

• Fireline will not lie in or adjacent to chute or 

chimney.

• Starting point will be anchored for crew(s) building 

fireline down from the top.

• Bottom of the fire will be monitored; if the potential 

exists for the fire to spread, action will be taken to 

secure the fire edge.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Line Construction – MIST Comments

Crew engages to suppress a wildfire with the least impact to 

the land. Fire conditions and good judgment dictate actions 

taken.

• Safety is of the utmost importance. Line standards 

and specifications are commensurate to the 

conditions.

• Proper procedures, tools and equipment are selected 

that least impact the environment.

Contact Phone #
32

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Spot Fire Procedures Comments

Crew has pre-identified spot fire protocols and procedures.

• Notification procedures: To overhead, firing boss, 

holding boss, burners, crew members, adjoining 

forces.

• Appropriate size-up procedure.

• Safety - LCES implementation.

• Engagement method(s).

• Ability to request additional resources if needed.

• Contain, control, patrol, mark and notify procedure 

or system.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Firing Operations - Burnout/Division Level Comments

Crew initiated and conducted a successful burnout to 

accomplish Division level control objectives. The crew was 

able to maintain control of fire intensity and keep the main 

fire and burnout operation within the control lines.

• Incident, division and crew level briefings were in 

agreement and crew fully understood the 

assignment.

• Coordination with adjoining resources and 

neighboring divisions was apparent and maintained 

for the duration of the shift.

• Crew utilized firing techniques appropriate for the 

fuels, weather and topography.

• Crew showed proficiency in the use of various 

types of firing equipment.

• Crew demonstrated the ability to control the 

intensity and rates of spread of the burnout 

necessary to meet incident objectives.

Contact Phone #
33

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Firing Operations - Burnout/Crew Level Comments

Crew initiated and conducted a successful burnout to 

accomplish crew level control objectives. The crew was able 

to able to maintain control of fire intensity and keep the main 

fire and burnout operation within the control lines.

• Superintendent or the crew overhead maintained 

communications with division supervisor and 

adjoining resources

• Crew had sufficient personnel, equipment and 

expertise to conduct the burnout without assistance.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Firing Operations – Holding Comments

• Crew was involved in holding operations in support 

of a burnout or backfiring operation.

• Superintendent and or crew overhead briefs and 

develops an organizational holding plan and assigns 

equipment and crews.

• Holding Boss should assure safety of personnel.

• Overhead and crew maintains communication with 

adjoining

• Resources to ensure plan is followed accordingly.

• Holding Boss advises Division Supervisor of the 

progress and holding conditions.

• Selected Individuals should be at a vantage point 

where both the firing and holders can be seen.

• Objective hazards and crew members and adjoining 

forces can be observed.

• Holding Boss should insure that crews and 

equipment are progressing with the firing 

operations when possible.

Contact Phone #
34

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Interface Operations – General Comments

• Crew operations stayed fluid in their performance 

of the overall plan. Crew’s strategy and tactics 

were able to adjust to changing conditions and 

situations.

• Priorities for the protection of life, property, and 

environmental resources were kept in focus, 

maintaining safety first.

• Crew conducted an organized and meaningful After 

Action Review following the assignment.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Interface Operations - Firing Around 

Structures/Improvements

Comments

Crew was actively engaged in firing operations adjacent to 

structures/improvements threatened by an approaching 

wildland fire.

• Crew overhead obtained a briefing from division or 

operations concerning the firing operation.

• Superintendent participated in the tactical planning 

of the firing procedures and crew responsibilities.

• Crew briefing was conducted addressing the 

objectives, safety concerns, LCES, firing 

procedures, and the crew’s part in the tactical 

implementation.

• Crew safely and effectively fired out from roads, 

lanes, pathways, hand line, etc. in an effort to 

protect structures/improvements.

• Burners showed a firm knowledge of firing 

techniques and firing equipment used.

• Crew maintained a vigilant stance during the 

holding period of the firing operation, actively 

searching for spot fires, and problems associated 

with doglegs, widow makers, snags, etc.

Contact Phone #
35

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Interface Operations - Structure/Improvement Triage Comments

Crew performed or assisted in the structure/improvement 

triage process, sizing up the threat to individual 

structures/improvements, prioritizing, and determining how 

best to minimize property damage and loss.

• Crew briefing was conducted addressing 

assignment objectives, predicted fire and weather 

activity, special hazards, communications, escape 

routes and safety zones.

• Crew showed a firm grasp of the defensible space 

concept.

• Crew was aware of occupancy coordinating efforts 

between property owners and fire fighters 

maintaining a professional attitude when dealing 

with the public.

• Crewmembers performed hazard reduction by 

cutting brush, limbing trees and shrubs, 

constructing handline, and removing debris from 

around structures/ improvements.

• Crew maintained good situational awareness with 

urban interface conditions such as vehicle traffic, 

best ingress and egress, domestic animals, electrical 

hazards and propane lines.

• Crew maintained a mobile capability, and 

maintained LCES.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Line Construction – Indirect Comments

Crew participated in an indirect line construction operation. 

LCES was in place and maintained for the duration of the 

shift.

• Assignment was to construct an indirect control line 

some distance from the main fire.

• Assignment was to widen a road and eliminate all 

hazards in anticipation of a firing operation.

Contact Phone #
36

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with Dozers Comments

• Crew works in conjunction with dozer to meet 

control objectives on the fireline.

• Crew briefing was conducted which included 

assignment objectives, hazards, communications, 

lookouts, escape routes, and safety zones.

• Communication was maintained between crew and 

dozer boss.

• Crew was never placed directly below dozer 

operations.

• If firing behind, crew supervisor(s) coordinates to 

not allow dozer to get too far ahead of firing crew.

• Crew maintained good situational awareness 

dealing with fire activity and hazards. LCES was 

maintained.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Construct/Prepare Helispot Comments

• Locate appropriate site

• Determine prevailing wind directions and clear 

approach and departure paths appropriate to size 

class of helicopter

• Level touchdown area appropriate to size class of 

helicopter

• Install windsock or wind indicator

• Remove or secure loose items

• Clear area of stumps, brush, posts, large rocks or 

anything over 18 inches high

• Relay any hazards to pilot

Contact Phone #
37

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with aircraft - Fixed wing: Air Attack/ASM’s Comments

• Crew supervisor(s) do an adequate job of describing 

crew location and crew needs.

• Radio communications are accurate, concise and 

respectful.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with aircraft - Directing Retardant and Bucket 

Drops

Comments

• All affected fireline personnel are notified of the 

aircraft’s intentions and are located in a safe area 

prior to the drop.

• Crew supervisor(s) describes general location on 

the incident.

• Crew supervisor(s) finalizes location by using 

appropriate and accepted communication methods:

 Signal mirrors

 Clock direction

 Flagging/Panels

 Position/Aspect on slope

 Describe prominent landmarks, etc.

• Crew supervisor(s) gives proper target description 

and mission.

• Crew supervisor(s) confirm the drop area is clear 

both with pilot and ground personnel.

• Crew supervisor(s) gives honest and constructive 

feedback on drop accuracy and effectiveness.

Contact Phone #
38

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with aircraft - Rotor Wing Crew Transport Comments

• Crew arrives at helibase/helispot organized with 

gear and equipment prepared to fly.

• Crew has current manifest ready for helitack 

personnel.

• Generally crew superintendent requests being 

placed on the first load.

• Crew listens and adheres to helitack personnel’s 

instructions.

Contact Phone #

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Chainsaw Operations Comments

Crew has demonstrated the safe and effective use of 

chainsaws and utilized appropriate saw team deployment 

techniques while engaged in line construction (hotline, 

downhill, indirect, etc.), mop-up, and felling operations.

• Crew was able to deploy multiple saw teams based 

on fireline assignment.

• Crew maintains personnel qualified at the B 

(intermediate) and/or C (advanced) Faller level and 

demonstrated the ability to perform complex falling 

and bucking operations.

• Sawyers showed a firm knowledge of chainsaw use 

and technique and adhered to agency policy and 

guidelines.

• Crew was proficient at conducting field 

maintenance of chainsaws and carried appropriate 

tools and parts to make basic repairs.

Contact Phone #
39

ASSIGNMENT Reviewer’s Name: Reviewer’s Crew:

Working with Other Crews, Adjoining Forces and 

Cooperators

Comments

Leading Up:

• Ability to provide resources from the crew to meet 

incident objectives. (IE: DIVS, DOZB, ENGB and 

other)

• Ability to provide intelligence gathering for 

operations, division, the situation unit to help 

develop objectives or strategy.

• Crew demonstrated leadership skills and 

collaboration when working with adjoining forces 

and or cooperators. 

• Crew communicated tactical objectives and goals 

for the completion of assignments.

• Crew understands the capabilities and limitations of 

non Type I IHC when conducting fire assignments.

• Crew maintained professionalism when working 

with Type 2 crews, contract crews, military crews 

and inmate crews during fire assignments.

• Crew maintained prompt and dependable 

communication with adjoining forces and or 

cooperators.

• Crew executed assignment while understanding 

cultural differences and abilities of other crews.

• Crew shared awareness of critical situations and 

hazards with other crews while performing 

assignments.

• Crew demonstrated ability to assist and or work 

with adjoining forces or cooperators while 

conducting engine company operations.

• Hoselays

• Fold-a-tank

• Portable pumps

• Mop-up

• Hose recovery

Contact Phone #