Although Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is extremely effective in combating fires, research indicates this firefighting foam may cause irreversible damage to the health of the human race and our environment. Firefighting foam contains toxic chemicals linked to several types of cancer. These toxic chemicals pollute our bodies and the earth, for example, research from Stockholm University found that even rainwater across the globe is contaminated with unsafe levels of the “forever chemicals” found in firefighting foam. Did you develop adverse health complications after suffering exposure to aqueous film-forming foam? Reach out today to learn more about how a firefighting foam lawsuit can benefit you.
Our law firm is currently handling lawsuits on behalf of individuals who were exposed to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) or firefighting foam. Prolonged exposure to firefighting foam may increase the risk of various cancers, among other adverse health effects.
Firefighting foam, also known as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), is a fire suppressant used to extinguish petroleum-based fires. AFFF is considered a superior substance to fight fires because it cuts off the oxygen supply to fires, suppresses vapors, and creates a cooling effect. Firefighters use firefighting foam to combat Class A fires, which involve solid materials, and Class B fires which are fueled by liquids or gas. AFFF is deemed more effective than water to put out these types of fires.
AFFF contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are human-made chemicals that contain fluorine and carbon and are very resistant to heat. While PFAS make AFFF an exceptional firefighting tool, these chemicals do not break down in the environment. Instead, PFAS linger in the environment and can even contaminate drinking water and food. Furthermore, PFAS build up inside the bodies of people repeatedly exposed to these chemicals. Once in the body, PFAS can remain for an extended period of time.
PFAS are highly toxic to humans and are linked to many types of cancer. Scientists refer to PFAS as “forever chemicals” because they are resistant to breaking down in the environment and in the body once consumed. The International Agency for Research on Cancer designated the active chemicals in firefighting foam as “possible human carcinogens.” Furthermore, FDA testing confirmed that PFAS in the air, soil, and water can be absorbed by plants and animals. Humans can consume PFAS due to this contamination of the food supply. In March 2020, the Environmental Working Group released a study on how PFAS act similarly to known cancer-causing agents. Also, The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment added a specific PFAS to its list of known carcinogens in December 2021.
Recently, the EPA updated its current understanding of PFAS. While research is ongoing, the EPA acknowledged that exposure to PFAS can lead to reproductive issues, developmental delays, increased risk of certain cancers, weakened immune systems, hormone disruption, and increased cholesterol.
DuPont originally invented the first PFAS known as Teflon in the 1940s. However, 3M quickly grew into one of the primary manufacturers, and soon dozens of companies assumed PFAS production. There are several firefighting foam manufacturers, such as:
Some companies have attempted to absolve themselves of accountability in firefighting foam lawsuits. For example, in September 2022, firefighting foam plaintiffs secured another small victory in the MDL when the judge ruled that 3M is not exempt from PFAS contamination litigation. 3M attempted to convince the judge to grant it immunity from firefighting foam lawsuits since the Navy contracted the company to produce the firefighting foam according to government specifications. However, the MDL judge struck down this motion on grounds that 3M may have concealed the toxicity of PFAS in firefighting foam from the government.
Hundreds of people have filed firefighting foam lawsuits nationwide. Currently, there are nearly 3,300 cases in federal multidistrict litigation in South Carolina. These lawsuits allege that manufacturers of firefighting foam failed to warn consumers about the health risks of AFFF. Claimants accuse manufacturers of producing and marketing AFFF despite knowing the association between PFAS and several cancers. Although many lawsuits pertain to individuals exposed through their work, individuals exposed to AFFF from contaminated groundwater have also filed claims against manufacturers. Firefighting foam lawsuits allege that companies contaminated groundwater near military bases, airports, and other industrial sites in which workers used the foam to extinguish fires.
Additionally, many states have filed lawsuits against firefighting foam and PFAS manufacturers. California, Minnesota, and Michigan are among some of the states who have targeted 3M, DuPont, and other companies for polluting waterways and water systems, and also damaging natural resources and public health.
In September 2022, the judge overseeing MDL-2873 announced that the first bellwether trial will be determined in December 2022. This announcement also revealed that the selected bellwether will begin in June 2023. Additionally, in October 2022, the MDL judge also appointed a mediator to facilitate firefighting foam lawsuit settlement negotiations.
Filing a lawsuit against a massive corporation with disposable funds and resources can be intimidating. But, our lawyers can assist you every step of the way in your potential firefighting foam lawsuit.
The individuals most susceptible to long-term exposure to PFAS are those who use firefighting foam occupationally. These individuals include firefighters, airport workers, service members, and chemical industry workers. Many military departments continue to rely on firefighting foam, and the Federal Aviation Administration required firefighters to use AFFF at airports until 2018. But, growing evidence suggests that forever chemicals linger in our atmosphere, water sources, and food supply. Injuries related to AFFF exposure include:
If you or a loved one suffered injuries following exposure to firefighting foam, you may recover compensation for any or all of the following:
Manufacturers neglected to inform the public about the dangers of PFAS in firefighting foam. Their failure to provide warnings about the toxic and carcinogenic nature of the chemicals in the foam compromised the health of thousands of individuals. For years, firefighters and service members used AFFF unbeknownst to the potential cancer risks. Furthermore, the forever chemicals in firefighting foam continue to poison the environment and will have long-lasting impacts for generations to come. Our attorneys want to assist you in holding these negligent manufacturers accountable for their reckless actions. Contact one of our attorneys today to discuss how exposure to firefighting foam harmed you.
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. The Lake Law Firm will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 274-0139 or submit an inquiry on this page.
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