Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a substance used by firefighters to stop the spread and re-ignition of fires. This firefighting foam was designed for protection, but over the last several decades hidden dangers have been exposed. AFFF works by blanketing surfaces, smothering fire and suppressing the release of any vapors. Originally designed to combat forest fires, it is now used primarily on military bases, in commercial aviation, on oil rigs or platforms or at refineries, and in chemical plants or other industrial settings.
Studies dating back to the 1970’s showed that many fire fighting foams contain per- and polyfluoroalkl substances (PFAs). Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAs do not break down and can accumulate in the environment or in the human body. A buildup of these toxic materials over time have been shown to lead to (in part):
- Prostate Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Thyroid Disease
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
The chemical companies manufacturing AFFF have known for decades about the dangers of PFAs, how they accumulate over time, and the serious illnesses that can result from exposure. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with any of the above conditions and have previously been exposed to AFFF, contact the Law Offices of Gary Green toll free at 888.442.7947 or e-mail us at ggreen@gGreen.com for a no risk review of your legal options.
Individuals who fought fires for the US Military or at commercial airports are often exposed to PFAs and are particularly at risk. But the general public is not sheltered from the damages of PFAs found in AFFF. These dangerous toxins can also seep into public and private ground water supplies, potentially exposing individuals, families and even entire communities to the devastating effects of PFAs. Communities surrounding military bases, airports and other locations that rely on fire-suppressing foam are especially at risk for this contamination.