What Is an Aqueous Film Forming Foam?

Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) is a specialized firefighting foam designed to combat Class B fires involving flammable liquids such as gasoline, jet fuel, and oil-based chemicals.

AFFF is used because of its rapid knockdown capabilities and ability to create a protective barrier over the liquid fuel, sealing it from oxygen which is needed for combustion.

This unique feature makes it ideal for handling fuel-based fires, including those occurring in aircraft hangars, industrial facilities, and fuel storage depots.

AFFF has applications in various situations, including aviation and marine firefighting, fuel spill emergencies, and large-scale industrial fires.

However, while the foam is effective in extinguishing fires, the chemicals present in AFFF can lead to severe health and environmental consequences.

What Are the Toxic Chemicals Found in AFFF?

AFFF may contain several toxic chemicals, the most significant of which are fluorosurfactants, which are categorized as PFAS chemicals.

Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS) are synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment, leading to their persistence and accumulation over time.

How Does AFFF Affect People and the Environment?

Exposure to AFFF can occur through various routes, including accidental ingestion, inhalation of fumes, and skin contact.

AFFF can impact people and the environment in a wide variety of ways.

Direct Exposure to Firefighting Foam

Firefighters and emergency responders who frequently handle AFFF are at a heightened risk of exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals.

Even with proper protective measures, firefighters and emergency personnel may be at risk of exposure to PFAS through their skin or inhalation of vapor and foam particles, potentially leading to severe health issues over time.

Water and Soil Contamination

AFFF can contaminate groundwater and surface water bodies for firefighting or training exercises.

The toxic PFAS chemicals can leach into the soil and eventually reach water sources, leading to widespread contamination.

Consuming water contaminated with PFAS can pose significant health risks to humans and wildlife.

Living Near a Firefighting Foam Manufacturing Warehouse

Communities residing near firefighting foam manufacturing warehouses are also at risk of PFAS exposure.

Air and water contamination from these facilities can result in elevated PFAS levels in residents’ blood, raising concerns about adverse health effects and the need for strict regulations on AFFF production and handling.

What Are the Cancers Related to AFFF Exposure?

AFFF may contain per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals known for their toxic and persistent nature in the environment.

Prolonged exposure to these chemicals has been associated with various diseases and disorders, making it crucial to understand the potential risks.

Cancer Development

Cancer development is one of the most concerning health effects linked to AFFF exposure.

PFAS chemicals found in AFFF products have been classified as possible human carcinogens by reputable organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Studies have shown an increased risk of certain conditions, including the following cancers:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Colon cancer/colorectal cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Do You Qualify to Join the Firefighter Foam Cancer Lawsuit?

Given the potential health risks associated with AFFF exposure, affected individuals may be eligible to seek legal recourse through firefighting foam cancer lawsuits.

Certain factors must be considered to determine eligibility for such cases:

• Development of related diseases or cancer diagnosis
• Proof of exposure to firefighting foam
• Associated evidence and damages

Development of Related Diseases

Individuals who have been diagnosed with cancers, lung diseases, liver damage, abnormal child development, or thyroid diseases after prolonged exposure to AFFF may qualify for filing a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Establishing a clear link between the disease and exposure to AFFF and PFAS chemicals is crucial.

Medical records, expert testimonies, and scientific studies can strengthen the case.

Proof of Exposure to AFFF

To strengthen their case, plaintiffs must provide evidence of prolonged exposure to AFFF.

Evidence can include work records, firefighting incident reports, and medical documentation detailing the nature and duration of exposure.

Additionally, testimonies from co-workers and fellow firefighters who can attest to the regular use of AFFF during firefighting operations can be invaluable.

Financial Damage Due to Treating the Disorder Caused by AFFF Exposure

Firefighting foam cancer lawsuits seek compensation for the financial burden of treating the disorder caused by AFFF exposure.

Medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses can be claimed as part of the lawsuit.

Compensation may also cover future medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs for managing chronic health conditions resulting from AFFF exposure.

How Can You Join the Ongoing Firefighting Foam MDL?

Personal injury claims and municipal water contamination cases have been consolidated into the AFFF Firefighting Foam MDL (MDL 2873).

The AFFF MDL groups claims from those who have suffered from occupational exposure to firefighting foam for consistency of decision-making and to speed up the process of the litigation.

Thousands of pending AFFF Lawsuits have been consolidated into the AFFF MDL.

If you want to know if you’re qualified to file an AFFF lawsuit, here are some steps to follow:

• Consult with AFFF Lawyers
• Gather evidence regarding your exposure to firefighting foam
• Work with your attorney to assess and calculate damages
• Follow the advice of your firefighting foam attorneys

Consult with AFFF Lawyers

The first step in joining the ongoing firefighting foam MDL is to find a reliable AFFF attorney.

Selecting an attorney with experience in handling cases related to AFFF exposure and its toxic effects is crucial.

Look for law firms or firefighting foam attorneys specializing in environmental and toxic tort litigation.

A reputable attorney will have a track record of success in similar cases and possess the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf.

Gather Evidence Linking Your Condition to AFFF Exposure

To qualify for legal action, you must provide evidence linking your health condition to AFFF exposure.

This evidence is essential in establishing a link between your exposure to AFFF and the resulting health issues.

Medical records, diagnoses, and other relevant documentation are critical in proving that your health condition directly results from exposure to AFFF during firefighting operations or other appropriate activities.

Your attorney will assist you in gathering the necessary evidence and help you organize it compellingly.

Assess and Calculate Damages with AFFF Lawyers

Working closely with your attorney, you will build a strong case that outlines the link between your health condition and AFFF exposure.

Your lawyer will assess and calculate damages related to your exposure to firefighting foam.

Damages are the total costs, economic and non-economic, associated with exposure to firefighting foam.

Damages in an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit may include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress
• Lost earning ability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability
• Future medical expenses and therapy costs
• Other compensatory and punitive damages
• Loss of consortium

Your attorney will present the evidence, medical records, expert testimonies, and other supporting documents to demonstrate causation and liability.

The MDL court will assess the merits of your case to determine whether it qualifies to be included in the consolidated proceedings.

If your case meets the necessary criteria, you will become a part of the MDL, benefiting from the efficiencies and resources provided by the consolidated litigation.

TorHoerman Law: Your Firefighting Foam Attorneys

Exposure to forever chemicals in toxic firefighting foam has been linked to numerous health risks, including cancer diagnosis.

AFFF Lawsuits are being filed against AFFF manufacturers on behalf of individuals who have suffered.

If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and developed cancer or other health problems, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file an AFFF Lawsuit instantly.

The toxic effects of AFFF exposure can devastate individuals and their families.

By joining the Firefighting Foam MDL, plaintiffs can pursue justice and seek fair compensation for their pain, suffering, and financial losses.

Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding AFFF foam lawsuits.

We will work diligently to gather the necessary evidence, build a robust case, and represent your interests throughout the legal proceedings.

Contact us now or use our chatbot to speak with our experienced firefighting foam lawyers.