Can Firefighters Use Ocean Water?

Fire can be put out with seawater, though it is not usually used to do so. Saltwater can effectively extinguish fire, but it may damage firefighting equipment and hurt plant life if used.

Can sea water be used for firefighting?

Explanation: Yes, salt water can be used to put out wildfires. However, salt water can harm plant life: some species are sensitive to salinity levels. Thus, using salt water may not be a wise first choice in firefighting methods in certain environments.

Why can't you use salt water to fight fires?

Ocean water can also be used to fight fires but because salt is corrosive, they have to wash out the aircraft with fresh water afterward, he said.