Tag: retardant
What is the flame retardant that planes are dropping on the LA fires?
By Bill Chappell This is a developing story. For the latest local updates, head to LAist.com. Also, sign up for NPR’s breaking news alerts. Air tankers are dropping thousands of gallons of red flame retardant in the hills around Los Angeles as firefighters attempt to limit the devastation from multiple wildfires. Images of vivid red clouds enveloping…
Pink Fire Retardant, a Dramatic Wildfire Weapon, Poses Its Own Dangers
Los Angeles Wildfires It’s widely used because it can slow flames in ways that water can’t. But it also contains heavy metals and other harmful compounds. By Hiroko Tabuchi From above the raging flames, these planes can unleash immense tankfuls of bright pink fire retardant in just 20 seconds. They have long been considered vital in…