Topic: Suggestions for cleaning up areas or structures where retardant was dropped.

Structures (wood / metal):

• Wash retardant off as soon as possible.
  
  
• Restrict water use to prevent puddles.
  
  
• Avoid leaving standing puddles of water by using absorbent materials such as sand, soil, or other materials.
  
  
• Some building materials will turn blue or black if not cleaned as soon as possible.

Vegetation:

• Rinse retardant off vegetation. Avoid leaving standing puddles of water by using absorbent materials such as sand, soil, or other materials.
  
  
• Leaf burn may occur since retardants contain levels of fertilizer higher than what is often sold at garden stores. This causes vegetation and plants to appear dead after contact. However, they will recover and grow back - usually within one to two months.
  
  
• As with any garden produce, wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly before using.

Pets & Other Animals:

• Shampoo thoroughly.
  
  
• Use materials that will effectively absorb any puddles after shampooing, or in areas that animals may have access to. Materials such as sand / soil / or other absorbents should be used on any standing water or puddles.
  
  
• Avoid ingestion of water - keep animals away from puddles.
  
  
• If your pet appears ill from drinking out of puddles or standing water, make sure your veterinarian knows the animal may have ingested a fertilizer-based product.

Refer to "Human Health/ Environmental Risk Assessment" Copies were sent to Regional Offices and Airtanker bases.

M.Apicello
June 21, 2000