Understanding Pink Fire Retardant: Its Role in LA Wildfires and Environmental Impact

Last Updated: January 13, 2025

In Los Angeles, planes are dropping pink fire retardants to fight wildfires. This bright red liquid aims to slow down the raging flames threatening homes and wildlife.

Fire retardant covers a backyard in Mandeville Canyon during the Palisades Fire. (AP Photo)

This effort is part of a larger strategy to tackle the wildfires that have been burning fiercely for over a week. Gusty Santa Ana winds, along with soaring temperatures and dry conditions, have worsened the situation.

Authorities have deployed nine large planes and 20 helicopters to drop fire retardants and water on the fires. With more winds expected in the coming days, the conditions remain critical, prompting red flag warnings.

What Are Pink Retardants?

The pink retardants used are called Phos-Chek LC95, supplied by Perimeter Solutions. These chemicals have been part of firefighting efforts since the 1950s, helping to slow the spread of fires.

Phos-Chek consists of water, fertilizer, and rust for color. The fertilizer itself includes ammonium nitrate, and the product effectively alters how vegetation burns by coating it and depleting it of oxygen.

How Does Phos-Chek Work?

When Phos-Chek contacts burning materials, it absorbs heat and turns flammable compounds into non-flammable carbon. This helps to protect structures, especially in residential areas.

Experts apply the retardant not directly onto fires but in front of them to create barriers that limit their spread. Even after the water evaporates, the fertilizer remains for days, marking its path.

Environmental Concerns

Despite being effective, fire retardants can release toxic metals like chromium and cadmium, which pose health risks such as cancer and organ damage. Concerns have led to bans on their use in sensitive areas like waterways and habitats for endangered species, unless human safety is at risk.

A study from the University of Southern California highlights that since 2009, the use of these chemicals has released 850,000 pounds of metals into the environment, raising alarms about their long-term impact.

The Extent of the Current Wildfires

Tragically, at least 24 lives have been lost due to these fires, with thousands of acres burned and over 12,000 structures destroyed. The Eaton Fire alone has spread to over 14,000 acres and is only partially contained.

Efforts for search and rescue continue, with thousands applying for disaster assistance. Residents in certain areas have been advised not to drink water due to concerns that fire-related contaminants may have infiltrated the system.