What is the primary purpose of supplementary agents in airport firefighting?

• A. To clean equipment
• B. To enhance foam performance
• C. To cool surfaces quicker
• D. To act as a fire retardant

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of supplementary agents in airport firefighting is to enhance foam performance. Supplementary agents are specially formulated additives that are mixed with the foam concentrate to improve its effectiveness in combating specific types of fires. In the context of airport firefighting, where the presence of aviation fuel can lead to challenging fire conditions, these agents play a crucial role in increasing the foam's ability to smother flames, create a film barrier, and enhance overall fire suppression capabilities.

These agents help to improve the expansion ratio of the foam, allowing it to cover flammable surfaces more effectively and improve drainage, which is essential when dealing with flammable liquids. Their role is particularly significant in mobile firefighting operations where swift and effective responses can mitigate the spread of fires, protect lives, and minimize damage to aircraft and airport facilities.

The other options, while related to firefighting, do not directly align with the primary functions of supplementary agents. Cleaning equipment is a separate maintenance task, cooling surfaces is a function of water or specific cooling agents, and acting as a fire retardant pertains more to certain chemical substances rather than the specific role of supplementary agents in foam application.