Big fires are happening in southern California. Firefighters are using a red and pink powder to stop the fires. They put this powder on houses, cars, and the ground. The powder is called Phos-Chek. It helps by making the fire smaller and slower. People should clean it off quickly with water and soap.

The powder is mostly water and also has salts and color. The color helps pilots and firefighters see where they put it. After some days, the sun makes the color go away. They spray the powder around the fire to protect the area. It makes the fire not burn things so fast.

Some people do not like the powder because it can be bad for fish and the environment. A group of people who work for the forest said it is not good and took the government to court. The judge said the forest people can still use the powder but they need to get permission. The forest people are now using a different kind of Phos-Chek that is safer for animals. They do not use the powder in very special nature places unless it is very important to protect people.