"The added red coloring allows pilots to see where fire retardant had previously been dropped, so that they could create continuous fire lines and improve containment of active wildfires," says Jeff Emery, president of global fire safety at Perimeter Solutions, which produces fire retardants for planes, helicopters, and on-the-ground application. The company produced all the fire retardant being used to fight the ongoing Los Angeles fires.
"In addition to helping pilots create continuous fire lines, it reduces the risk of redundant drops, making firefighting efforts more efficient and conserving resources," Emery says.
Perimeter Solutions selected the specific color that crews are using "after extensive testing and through feedback from the pilots regarding the optimal visibility from the air," Emery says. And it won't stay that color forever. Over time and with exposure to UV light, the color fades.
Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone noted that it is not only effective but also safe, countering false claims spread on social media. "I consider that the sinister side of social media."
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