Is it Time?

Wildfires have changed, has the response? Higher temperatures, lower humidity, increased wind and longer seasons all contribute to lower moisture content in our forests. When fires start, they burn hotter, faster. Water used to cool flames, so firefighters on the ground can work towards containment, evaporates fast, sometimes before it hits the ground. Even gel or foam additives which improve water’s impact are no match for extreme wildfires. Fire burns deep underground, emerging from roots after water’s moisture dries out, making wildfires unstoppable without additional support. Using retardant to slow a fire is the support water needs. Retardant is mixed with water and dropped ahead of the flames. It clings to vegetation after water has evaporated, slowing combustion. Water and retardant work in partnership with each other to make progress on extreme wildfires, with water drenching the fire itself to cool its heat, while retardant lines the perimeter of the fire to slow its progress. Read more in Aerial Fire Magazine…