Ignition Sphere Demonstration

Firefighters demonstrate how ignition spheres work by injecting glycerol into a small plastic sphere full of potassium permanganate. After about 30 seconds, the ensuing chemical reaction will create a small flame about the size of a road flare. During a prescribed burn, these plastic spheres are injected and dropped out of a helicopter in a precise ignition pattern based on fuels, weather conditions, and wind.