Regarding the pink fire retardant used in combating wildfires, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The primary active ingredient in Phos-Chek is ammonium phosphate.
2. The pink dye is added solely for aesthetic purposes.
3. Fire retardant is typically dropped at the center of fires to extinguish them quickly.
4. The effectiveness of aerial retardants depends on factors such as slope, fuel type, terrain, and weather.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation: Statements 1 and 4 are correct. The key active ingredient in Phos-Chek is indeed ammonium phosphate, and the effectiveness of aerial retardants depends on various environmental factors as noted by Forest Service scientists . Statement 2 is incorrect, as the pink dye is added for visibility against the landscape, enabling firefighters to create fire lines effectively, not just for aesthetics. Statement 3 is also incorrect, as fire retardant is typically dropped at the edges of fires to create barriers, preventing the flames from spreading, rather than at the center.
Explanation: Statements 1 and 4 are correct. The key active ingredient in Phos-Chek is indeed ammonium phosphate, and the effectiveness of aerial retardants depends on various environmental factors as noted by Forest Service scientists . Statement 2 is incorrect, as the pink dye is added for visibility against the landscape, enabling firefighters to create fire lines effectively, not just for aesthetics. Statement 3 is also incorrect, as fire retardant is typically dropped at the edges of fires to create barriers, preventing the flames from spreading, rather than at the center.
