Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been used for decades by firefighters and military personnel to suppress fires, particularly those involving flammable liquids like fuel. However, concerns about the harmful effects of AFFF are steadily increasing, particularly due to the chemicals it contains, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to serious health issues, including certain types of cancer. Determining if you have been exposed to AFFF is essential for understanding potential health risks and taking steps toward protecting yourself.
Who Is Most at Risk of AFFF Exposure?
- Firefighters: Firefighters, especially those in the military, industrial sectors, and on airport firefighting teams, are the most at risk of exposure to AFFF. Fire departments that have used AFFF in training exercises or real-life fire suppression operations may have personnel who have been directly exposed to PFAS.
- Military Personnel: AFFF has been widely used at military bases for decades, particularly on airfields to extinguish jet fuel fires, and in the navy on aircraft carriers. If you have served in the military, particularly in areas with firefighting or aviation responsibilities, you may have been exposed.
- Workers at Airports and Refineries: Those who work at airports, refineries, and chemical plants may also have been exposed to AFFF if they participated in firefighting, fire suppression drills, or cleaning up areas where AFFF was used.
- Communities Near Military Bases or Industrial Sites: People living near military bases, airports, or industrial areas where AFFF has been used may also have been exposed to PFAS through contaminated water sources. These chemicals can leach into groundwater and surface water, affecting drinking water supplies in surrounding communities.
Signs That You May Have Been Exposed to AFFF
While it’s impossible to determine PFAS exposure solely through symptoms, there are a few ways to determine if you have come into contact with PFAS:
- Past Firefighting Experience: If you have been involved in firefighting, particularly in environments where fuel or chemical fires were a concern, there is a high likelihood that AFFF was used. Military firefighters, industrial firefighters, and those who worked in large-scale firefighting operations should take special note.
- Training with AFFF: Many firefighting teams use AFFF during training exercises. If you’ve ever trained in an environment where AFFF was employed to simulate fire suppression, you may have been exposed. Check records of past firefighting drills and inquire with your department or base if AFFF was used.
- Living Near a Military Base or Airport: Communities near military installations or airports where AFFF has been used may have contaminated water sources due to PFAS leaching from fire training sites or chemical spills. Check local water quality reports to see if PFAS has been detected in your community’s water supply.
- Contaminated Drinking Water: PFAS are known to persist in the environment and can contaminate water supplies. If you live near an airport, military base, or industrial facility that has used AFFF, your drinking water may be contaminated with PFAS. You can check with your local water authority or environmental agency to determine if PFAS levels in your water have been tested.
Health Concerns Linked to AFFF Exposure
Exposure to the chemicals in AFFF, particularly PFAS, has been linked to several health problems. Some of the most concerning health issues associated with PFAS exposure include:
- Kidney and Testicular Cancer: Studies have shown a correlation between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of developing kidney and testicular cancer.
- Liver Damage: PFAS exposure has been linked to liver problems, including changes in liver enzymes and increased cholesterol levels.
- Thyroid Disease: PFAS can disrupt the endocrine system and may lead to thyroid problems, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto’s disease.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Exposure?
- Get Tested: If you believe you’ve been exposed to AFFF, speak with a healthcare professional about testing for PFAS levels in your blood. While there are no widely accepted medical treatments for PFAS exposure, knowing your PFAS levels can help guide medical monitoring and future decisions regarding your health.
- Consult an Attorney: If you suspect that AFFF exposure has harmed your health, it’s important to seek legal advice. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a AFFF lawsuit claim against those responsible for your exposure. Keefe Law Firm is experienced in handling AFFF-related cases and can assist you in navigating this complex legal landscape.
- Monitor Your Health: Regular medical check-ups and monitoring are essential if you have been exposed to AFFF. Keep your healthcare provider informed about your possible exposure and any new or unusual health symptoms that arise.
Exposed to AFFF? Contact Keefe Law Firm
AFFF exposure is a serious concern for those who have worked in firefighting, served in the military, or lived near sites where this foam was used. Determining if you have been exposed to AFFF involves understanding your occupational history, community water quality, and any health symptoms you may be experiencing. If you believe you’ve been exposed, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your health and seek legal guidance. Contact Keefe Law Firm to learn more about how we can help you pursue justice and compensation for your injuries.