Bhutan is stepping up its fight against the growing threat of forest fires as the fire season is just around the corner. The Department of Forests and Park Services is testing two eco-friendly and non-toxic fire retardants or products to stop the spread of fire. The products are developed by a Singapore-based company.
The two products, FT JN1010 and FT JN669 are diluted with water.
This solution can be stored in firefighting trucks and other firefighting equipment. Once sprayed, it coats vegetation and structures, forming a protective layer that helps prevent the spread of fire.
One of the solutions is designed for forest fire suppression, while the other one is for structural fire applications.
The products were demonstrated by Fire Terminator International at Khasadrapchu in Thimphu today.
Karma Chorten Dendup, Sr. Forestry Officer from the Department of Forests and Park Services said, “This solution will not only help us suppress forest fires, but the JN1010 product, in particular, will greatly aid in structural firefighting. To strengthen the country’s fire resilience, I believe it is now crucial for all departments and agencies to come together and explore innovative ways to curb or minimise forest fire incidents.”
Moreover, they are considered safe for firefighters, communities, and environment, while also being cost-effective.
Judah Jay (PhD), chief scientist/inventor said, “In America, out of ten firefighters, seven die of cancer due to perfluorooctane sulfonate. Our product, however, does not contain any of these toxic chemicals, which makes it safe for firefighters. That is the good thing about this product.”
In addition, the solutions can also prevent the reignition of fires once they are extinguished.
“Although there are many products available worldwide, most are toxic and allow reburning. Our product, however, prevents reburning as it interferes with the combustion molecule. Even when oxygen is present, it blocks it at the core, preventing reignition.”
He said the solution costs around 25 US dollars per litre. However, Bhutan will be getting the product at a discounted rate.
If the pilot project in Thimphu proves successful, it will later be expanded nationwide.
The pilot project now awaits the real test of the fire season. Its success could shape the firefighting strategies in Bhutan.
Kinzang Lhadon
Edited by Tshering Zam
