How does the use of foam suppress fire differently than water?

Foam suppresses fire by forming a blanket over the flammable material, effectively cutting off the oxygen supply needed for combustion. This suffocation method is distinct from water, which primarily functions to cool the flames and lower the temperature of the burning material. By eliminating the oxygen and preventing the release of flammable vapors, foam can effectively extinguish fires that water may struggle with, particularly those involving flammable liquids.

In contrast, water is used primarily to cool and reduce the temperature, which can take longer to fully extinguish a fire. While foam provides the additional benefit of creating that oxygen barrier, water does not have this capability. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective fire suppression tactics in various scenarios, especially in aviation fire rescue operations.