Thank you for your utilization of the Safenet process. Linked is the latest version of the Red Book Interagency Standards for Fire and Aviation https://www.nifc.gov/PUBLICATIONS/redbook/2020/RedBookAll.pdf
and copied wording from the most recent Southwest Pacific Region Engine Module Staffing Letter, signed by Regional Forester Randy Moore. I will attempt to summarize guidance from the “Red Book” and the R5 Engine Staffing Letter that may clarify guidance. The Red Book states, For Type 3 engines, minimum staffing is three individuals, including an Engine Boss. As a supplement to the Redbook, The Pacific Southwest Region developed supplemental policy that goes above and beyond what the “Red Book” states. This R5 supplement was based on a previous incident where a CDL Trainee Driver was involved in an accident with their Type 3 Engine. Furthermore-
Taken from the 2016 Engine Module Staffing Letter-
Engine Modules will adhere to the Interagency Standards for Fire and Aviation Operations for staffing of Type 3 Engines. Modules will be configured and staffed with qualified personnel who do not serve as Engine Boss and Engine Operator concurrently. Modules are required to maintain two personnel with Commercial Drivers Licenses (CDL’s) with appropriate endorsements. If you have questions regarding this information, please contact your Forest Fire Management Officer.
Corrective Action:
The R5 Engine Captain was correct and was following Pacific Southwest Regional direction by turning down the request to serve in an overhead position.
You state that you work in Region 5. I am not sure what capacity you serve in, but you should be aware of the Red Book Standards and the R5 Engine Module Staffing Letter. If you aren’t aware of the Regional Forester’s guidance, please see the attached and discuss with your supervisor and/or Forest Fire Management Officer.
You state multiple resources were involved, in this case (I am assuming) the IC utilized another resource to cover his overhead position.
And lastly, it is hard to gain full clarity and context of an emerging I/A through an email but if this was truly and emergency situation that required immediate utilization of the Captain in an overhead capacity, there are doctrinal options that you can exercise with the support of your leadership. |
