A message from Al Crouch, Fire Operations Supervisor, Vale BLM:
The topic was raised at the last Training Officers meeting concerning fire shelters. Here is what I found out.
Just to give all of you background information on this....the feds (BLM, USFS) are mandated to use the New Generation Fire Shelter starting this year. We will be phasing out the older models. This is only for the feds! Not for you. You will still be able to use the fire shelters that you have already, provided that they are fit for service. In fact, now that we are switching over, we may be able to get you some more of our old ones. I'll let you know on that.
ps. If you have old shelters that are worn and unserviceable, the material still works. I can see practical uses in extrication as a flame barrier to a victim or any other heat or flame barrier use that you may encounter. You could also use it to cover heat sensitive parts on your equipment/apparatus. Just a thought.
If you have any questions, feel free to call.
Thanks.
Al Crouch - Fire Operations Supervisor