What type of fire suppression agent is often used by ARFF vehicles?

• A. Water only
• B. Foam
• C. Dry powder
• D. Both foam and dry powder

Answer: (D)

ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting) vehicles use a combination of foam and dry powder fire suppression agents to effectively combat aircraft fires. Foam is particularly effective in smothering flames, cooling the fire and preventing rekindling, especially in cases of hydrocarbon fuel fires, which are common in aviation incidents. The foam creates a blanket that seals off the fuel from the air, thereby disrupting the combustion process.

Dry powder agents, on the other hand, are used for their ability to extinguish fires involving flammable metals and other classified materials that might not respond well to water or foam. They interrupt the chemical reaction in the fire and are useful in a variety of situations, especially when dealing with aviation fuels.

By utilizing both foam and dry powder, ARFF vehicles can respond to a broader range of fire types and conditions effectively, ensuring a more comprehensive firefighting strategy in the airport environment. This combination is essential for the safety and efficacy of fire suppression in situations where traditional water alone would not be sufficient to manage the fire.