In many fire scenarios – especially during vegetation and wildland fires – the availability of extinguishing water presents a logistical challenge. This makes it all the more important to use available resources as efficiently as possible. One highly effective method to optimize water usage is the use of so-called wetting agents.

What are wetting agents?

Wetting agents such as the high-performance product UltraWet® by Dr. STHAMER are special additives that are mixed into extinguishing water at very low concentrations (typically 0.1–0.5%). They reduce the surface tension of water, allowing it to adhere better to surfaces and penetrate deeper into porous or hydrophobic materials like needles, leaves, or peat. Foam concentrates can also be used at low dosing levels as wetting agents. The advantages of UltraWet® include a very strong wetting effect even at a 0.1% proportioning rate and an environmentally friendly formulation.

How do wetting agents save water?

By improving water penetration and spreading characteristics, wetting agents enable water to reach and cool hidden embers more quickly and effectively. This allows fires to be fought more efficiently using less water. Tests and field experience show that the use of wetting agents can significantly reduce water consumption – while maintaining or even improving extinguishing performance.

Operational advantages:

• Reduced water consumption, especially valuable in remote or difficult-to-access areas

• Faster suppression, thanks to improved penetration

• Shorter deployment times and reduced risk of re-ignition

• Gentle on equipment and the environment, as required concentrations are very low and modern wetting agents by Dr. STHAMER are biodegradable and extensively tested by independent institutes

Conclusion:

The targeted use of wetting agents is a simple yet highly effective approach to saving water, increasing operational efficiency, and significantly boosting firefighting performance – particularly in wildland and vegetation fire scenarios.