The powdered substance sprayed over the California wildfires is called Phos-Chek. It contains ammonium phosphate — an ingredient commonly found in fertilizer.

In the wake of the California wildfire news coverage, you’re likely to have seen cars, trucks, homes and much more covered in a hot pink, powdery mixture. What exactly is it – and why are aerial firefighters spreading across many neighborhoods?

More than 62 square miles of Los Angeles have burned after rapid wildfires broke out last week. Firefighters are racing to fight the flames and prevent further destruction, like that seen from Pasadena to the Palisades Fire along the Pacific Coast.