How is foam generated for fire suppression in ARFF operations?

In Airport Rescue Fire Fighter (ARFF) operations, foam is crucial for effective fire suppression, particularly for flammable liquid fires. The correct method for generating foam involves mixing foam concentrate with water and then aerating this mixture.

When the foam concentrate is combined with water, it creates a solution that can be further processed. Aeration introduces air into this solution, which creates bubbles that expand and increase the volume of the foam. This foam blanket is essential because it not only smothers flames by blocking oxygen but also helps to cool the fire and prevent the release of flammable vapors that could reignite.

This approach is effective in generating a stable foam that can cover and encapsulate flammable liquids, thus preventing them from igniting or re-igniting. The properties of the foam enhance its performance in emergency situations, making it a vital tool in ARFF operations for controlling and extinguishing fires.