Seeking Emergency Care

The Basics Of Firefighting Foam

16 January 2023 by Bruce Simpson

Firefighting foam is a special type of fire suppression agent used to suppress and extinguish fires. Firefighters and other emergency personnel have used it for decades to quickly put out fires, saving lives and property. But what exactly is firefighting foam? Here's what you need to know. 

What Is Firefighting Foam?

Firefighting foam is a special type of fire suppression agent that works by forming a film on the surface of the burning material or fuel, smothering the flames and preventing them from spreading. It also forms an impenetrable barrier between the oxygen in the air and the fuel source, further inhibiting combustion, as fire needs oxygen.

How Is Firefighting Foam Used?

Firefighting foam can be used on many different types of fires, including:

• Oil
• Gas
• Electrical
• Grassland
• Forest

It can also be used in confined spaces such as buildings or vehicles that contain combustible materials. Firefighting foam can be sprayed directly onto burning materials to cool them off and inhibit further combustion.

How Does Firefighting Foam Work?

Firefighting foam works by cooling down the surface temperature of burning materials through evaporation as well as by forming an impermeable barrier between oxygen in the air and the fuel source. This process prevents further combustion from occurring while simultaneously smothering existing flames so they can be extinguished quickly and safely. Additionally, firefighting foam is designed to remain stable at high temperatures so it can be applied directly onto hot surfaces without evaporating or breaking down too quickly, allowing for faster response times.

What Are the Benefits of Firefighting Foam?

There are many benefits to firefighting foam, including:

• Effective. Firefighting foam, like AFFF replacement foam, puts out fires quickly without causing damage to property or people nearby.
• Fewer toxins. It also contains fewer toxins than other fire suppression agents, such as dry chemical powder or halogenated agents. In other words, it does not contain any carcinogenic compounds, nor does it create hazardous fumes when burned, making it safer for firefighters and civilians.
• Better coverage. Furthermore, because firefighting foam adheres to all surfaces, it provides better coverage than other types of suppression agents. 

Firefighting foam is an invaluable tool for firefighters and other emergency personnel when it comes to quickly suppressing and extinguishing fires. Its ability to cool down burning materials, form a barrier between oxygen in the air and fuel sources, as well as its lack of toxins, make it one of the safest fire suppression agents available. With these benefits, you can see why you should consider investing in firefighting foam for your own safety and peace of mind.

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