What is the main purpose of fire retardants?

The primary purpose of fire retardants is to slow or stop the spread of fire by reducing combustion. Fire retardants work by chemically altering the combustion process, which can involve disrupting the ability of the fire to sustain itself by lowering the flammability of the materials they are applied to. This helps protect structures, wildlife, and forests from the devastating effects of wildfires. By inhibiting the flames and reducing the heat, fire retardants play a crucial role in wildfire management and suppression efforts, providing critical extra time for firefighters to take action and control the fire spread.