Aviation-Guide - Flipbook - Page 40
Fire Suppressant/Retardant Chemicals
Use of Fire Suppressant/Retardant Chemicals to
Aid in Control of Wildfires
• CAL FIRE uses a variety of fire Suppressant/Retardant chemicals in
controlling wildfires.
• The Department’s use of these materials, to enhance its fire fighting
capabilities in protecting life and property, is a foreseeable occurrence.
• CAL FIRE’s use of fire Suppressant/Retardant chemicals is a
discretionary action subject to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
• CAL FIRE has adopted a mitigated negative declaration that described
the Department’s use of these chemicals and analyzed the potential of
these chemicals to cause environmental impacts. This analysis identified
particular situations where these chemicals have the potential to cause
impacts to biological resources and water quality. The Department
adopted seven (7) mitigation measures that substantially reduce the
potential for these impacts to occur. Those mitigation measures have
been incorporated into the Department’s Wildland Fire Chemical Policies
and firefighter training.
Summary of Mitigation Measures
1. CAL FIRE will limit the use of fire suppressant/retardant chemical
mixtures in areas adjacent to waterways.
2. Proper protective clothing shall be worn while mixing and loading long
term retardants.
3. All airbases which mix and load fire suppressant/retardant chemicals
will be designed to contain any accidental spills of fire suppressant/
retardant chemicals.
4. Mobile mixing plants deployed at major fires will be located away from
waterways.
5. CAL FIRE will establish jettison areas nearby air retardant bases to
minimize potential for contamination.
6. CAL FIRE shall notify the Department of Fish and Game and regional
water quality control boards when accidental contamination has
occurred that may result in harm to fish or wildlife.
7. CAL FIRE uses only retardants which are approved for use by the USFS
WFCS.
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