A preferred embodiment of the cable of the present invention incorporates a core, an outer jacket surrounding the core, and a commercially available super-absorbent fibers disposed between the core and the outer jacket as well as inside the core. The fibers may also be applied to a tape to be provided between the core and the outer jacket. The tape incorporates a first layer and super-absorbent fibers, with the super-absorbent fibers being applied to the first layer. Preferably, the first layer is formed of spun bonded non-woven polyester material, nylon spun bonded fabric, non-woven glass, polypropylene melt blown non-woven fabric, polyurethane spun bonded fabric, or TCF cellulose fabric, among others. Additionally, the fibers preferably are provided with a moisture content of greater than approximately 0 percent, by weight, thereby improving the flame-retarding characteristics of the tape.