The Tennessee Division of Forestry explains effects of fire retardant used in Sequatchie County fire

From Local 3 News: A fire that broke out in Sequatchie County on Sunday has burned nearly 600 acres, threatening over 30 non-residential structures and 16 homes. According to Megan Carpenter, a spokesperson with the Tennessee Division of Forestry, the fire posed a serious threat to both property and lives in the area.

“When that is the situation, we put a lot of work and effort into trying to protect those, because those are people's not literal lives, but figurative lives that are at risk,” Carpenter said.

In response to the fire, the United States Forest Service deployed a helicopter to drop water over the affected area, while also using a tankard to release a fire retardant known as Phos-Chek. Carpenter explained that this retardant is only used in extreme situations to help slow the fire’s spread.

“They basically coat the fuels, and make it much harder for those fuels to burn, which then slows down the movement of the fire, giving us time to put in those fire lines to protect the things that are at risk,” Carpenter explained.

Phos-Chek is made of water, fertilizer, and red dye. While it poses no long-term health risks to humans, Carpenter noted that the product can negatively impact aquatic life if not properly applied. To prevent environmental damage, retardant drops are avoided over waterways.

“There are some concerns about it being in waterways, and in order to avoid those impacts, we don't do retardant drops over waterways,” she said.

The red residue left by Phos-Chek helps firefighters track where the retardant has been applied. If residents spot the powder on their properties, they are advised not to be alarmed but should check that it’s not on any produce they plan to bring inside.

“You want to look for that red, and make sure it's not on any of your veggies that you're bringing in the house,” Carpenter cautioned.

While generally safe, Carpenter emphasized that studies show Phos-Chek does not cause long-term health issues for people.

As of now, the fire is 80% contained, with crews still working to ensure it remains within the established fire lines.