What types of agents do ARFF vehicles typically carry to manage fires?

• A. Water and foam
• B. Dry chemical and halogenated or CO₂ systems
• C. Gel and sand
• D. Type B foam and water

Answer: (B)

The appropriate answer indicates that ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) vehicles typically carry dry chemical and halogenated or CO₂ systems to manage fires effectively. These agents are crucial in combating the various types of fires that can occur at an airport, particularly those involving aircraft, which can involve flammable fuels and materials.

Dry chemical agents are versatile and effective against a variety of fire classes, especially flammable liquids and gases, which are a common hazard in aviation incidents. Halogenated agents and CO₂ systems are particularly useful as they can suppress fires without leaving a residue that might further complicate cleanup operations. This is especially important in an airport environment, where maintaining clear and operable surfaces is vital for safety and operational efficiency.

While water and foam are also commonly used in firefighting, their effectiveness can be limited in certain scenarios involving highly flammable materials where rapid extinguishment is necessary. Gel and sand are less conventional and are not typically housed in ARFF vehicles due to their limitations in application versus the more effective chemical agents. Type B foam and water indeed serve well in certain contexts, but the specified answer provides a more comprehensive approach to controlling aviation-related fire emergencies with the agents effective for a wider range of fuel types.