Pink Fire Retardants Deployed in Los Angeles Wildfires Raise Environmental Concerns

Firefighters use aerial suppressants to combat deadly California blazes, but questions linger about their environmental impact.

Four major wildfires in Los Angeles County have burned 62 square miles, killed 24 people, displaced thousands, and destroyed over 12,000 structures since January 7, 2025.
Fire retardants, a mix of water, ammonium phosphate, and iron oxide, are being dropped by aircraft to slow the fires and protect neighborhoods.
While effective in suppressing flames, fire retardants are restricted near waterways and endangered species habitats due to potential harm to fish and wildlife.
Some studies suggest these chemicals may contribute to heavy metal contamination in waterways, though manufacturers dispute these findings and assert compliance with safety standards.
Wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues, with research linking it to increased risks of dementia and other brain health concerns.