The Pine grove at the top of the Sespe Mountain ranged was saved this week from the Thomas Fire by repeated Phos-Chek Fire Retardant Class A Foam & Gel drops. Phos-Chek fire retardants are manufactured as dry powders or as concentrated liquids and diluted with water prior to use. The retardant is applied ahead of wildfires to homes and vegetation by ground crews and aerial firefighting units, either fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. The Pines spring from the Bear Haven area on the north side of the mountain range.