What is the primary role of foam in firefighting at airports?

• A. To cool the fire down
• B. To smother the flames
• C. To create a barrier against fire spread
• D. To extinguish fires without leaving residues

Answer: (B)

The primary role of foam in firefighting at airports is to smother the flames. Foam operates by forming a blanket over the surface of the burning fuel, effectively cutting off the fire's access to oxygen, which is a critical element for combustion. By smothering the flames in this manner, foam not only suppresses the fire but also helps to prevent re-ignition, thus playing a vital role in extinguishing fire hazards often seen in aviation-related incidents, such as fuel spills.

In instances where firefighting foam is deployed, it also aids in controlling fuel vapors and mitigating environmental impacts, which is crucial at airports where hazardous materials may be involved. While cooling the fire down, creating barriers against fire spread, and extinguishing fires without residues are beneficial properties of foam, the act of smothering flames is its primary function in ensuring rapid and effective fire suppression, particularly in the dynamic and high-risk environments of airports.