AFFF is the chemical firefighters use to extinguish and control fires. While this is excellent for reducing the time it takes to put out a fire, it is causing negative effects on their health.
What is AFFF and Is it Toxic?
AFFF is a chemical compound made by combining ethylene and propylene glycol (PFAS) to extend the life of the foam. Once the foam is made, then it is mixed with water to dilute it. This foam is especially needed when there are gas fires or other types that water does not work well on.
The foam itself is not toxic, but the compounds that are used to thicken the foam are. While the foam can be harmful, small amounts of the chemicals are acceptable and completely normal. Most people drive by some form of the chemicals daily, such as when you go by a plant and see their smokestacks. The problem occurs where there is long-term exposure.
What are the Long-Term Effects of the Chemicals in AFFF?
There are many adverse health effects that the chemicals in AFFF may cause, such as high cholesterol, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, asthma, fetal damage, low immune systems, liver disease, and child development issues. The full effects of PFAS are not yet known, and we will learn more with time. These effects do not happen to everyone. It depends on how long the individual was exposed and how strong the chemicals were.
These chemicals, also known as forever chemicals, can contaminate the environment and possibly contaminates drinking water. If there was a lot of AFFF used for a fire, the EPA might contain the area until proper cleanup. These forever chemicals have been linked to many different types of cancers.
PFAS and Increased Risk of Cancer
Firefighters find these chemicals highly effective at putting out petroleum-based fires. It is when there is a chemical buildup in the firefighters’ body that the substances become dangerous. Since the PFAS are absorbed into the ground, it is difficult to know the exact number of people exposed.
The general public has become aware of the dangers of PFAS and the EPA is working to lower the number of chemicals in AFFF. Because firefighting foam may cause cancer due to the buildup of the PFAS in the body, it is essential to pay attention to the signs and go in for regular cancer screenings.
AFFF (Firefighting Foam) Lawsuits
Government agencies have been aware of cancer-causing chemicals that are in firefighting foam since 1966. Although some steps have been taken to lower the risk of cancer, it does not help those with long-term exposure.
Even though many were aware of the cancer-causing ingredients in firefighting foam products, they continued to be sold. If you or a loved one has developed cancer while using the firefighting form, you may be eligible for compensation. Currently, there are over 750 suits that have been brought against various firefighter foam manufacturers.
Finding the Best AFFF (Firefighting Foam) Attorney
While many attorneys are available, you want to find the best one to work with you with your AFFF lawsuit. A qualified attorney can make the process quicker and easier for you and your family.
You want to look for a lawyer who offers a free initial consultation. Before the consultation, make a list of questions you want to ask the attorney and make sure that the attorney knows about firefighting foam lawsuits. Most lawyers are only paid if there is compensation as a result of the case.
The last thing you want to hear is that you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer. If this happens due to using firefighting foam, you need to contact a qualified attorney who can help you get compensation and pay for any medical bills and other financial losses. You do not have to go through this alone.