AFFF Impact On Service Members At Military Bases
June 10, 2025 | PFAS Lawsuit Attorneys
Firefighting foam, specifically Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), has been a critical tool in protecting military personnel and assets from devastating fires, especially those involving jet fuel. However, behind its life-saving capabilities lies a troubling legacy of health risks and environmental contamination. This article explores the profound impact that AFFF exposure has had on service members stationed at military bases, the growing wave of lawsuits addressing these harms, and the essential steps affected individuals should take to protect their health and legal rights.
Understanding AFFF and Its Use on Military Bases
AFFF is a specialized firefighting foam designed to quickly extinguish flammable liquid fires by creating a film that suppresses vapors. For decades, it has been a staple in military firefighting protocols, especially in areas involving aircraft and fuel storage. Despite its effectiveness, AFFF contains a group of synthetic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.
PFAS compounds have unique properties that make them highly resistant to heat, water, and oil, which is why they were favored in firefighting foams. However, these same properties mean PFAS do not break down easily, accumulating over time and causing lasting contamination. Military service members who routinely worked with or around AFFF during training exercises, emergency responses, or maintenance were often unknowingly exposed to these hazardous chemicals.
The Hidden Health Risks of PFAS in AFFF
One of the most alarming aspects of AFFF exposure is the growing body of scientific evidence linking PFAS compounds to a range of serious health conditions. Research has demonstrated that PFAS exposure can increase the risk of developing multiple types of cancer and other chronic diseases. Some of the most commonly reported health issues associated with PFAS exposure include:
- Testicular cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Leukemia
- Thyroid cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Liver cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Thyroid disease
- Hormonal disruptions and developmental issues in children
These health conditions are not only devastating but also often difficult to treat, compounding the challenges faced by affected service members and their families. PFAS chemicals have also been shown to interfere with hormone function and impair growth and learning in children, raising concerns about the long-term impact on military families living near contaminated bases.
AFFF Lawsuits: Seeking Justice for Service Members
As awareness of the dangers posed by AFFF and PFAS has grown, thousands of military personnel, firefighters, and community members have come forward to hold manufacturers and responsible parties accountable. These lawsuits allege that prolonged exposure to AFFF has resulted in significant health complications, including cancer and other serious illnesses.
Key Arguments in AFFF Litigation
The central claim in these lawsuits revolves around the failure of manufacturers to warn users about the harmful effects of PFAS in their firefighting foam products. Plaintiffs argue that despite knowing the dangers, manufacturers continued to produce and distribute AFFF without adequate safety information or alternatives.
Additionally, the lawsuits highlight the occupational risks faced by firefighters and military members who regularly handled AFFF during their duties. Many firefighters, who played a crucial role in emergency response and training, developed cancer and other illnesses after prolonged exposure. Similarly, military personnel were exposed not only during active firefighting but also through contaminated groundwater and soil around bases.
Community Impact and Environmental Contamination
The repercussions of AFFF exposure extend beyond military personnel to the surrounding communities. Groundwater contamination has become a significant issue, with PFAS chemicals seeping into drinking water supplies near many military installations. This contamination poses risks to families and individuals residing near these bases, often without their knowledge. The persistent nature of PFAS means that once contamination occurs, it can last for decades, making remediation efforts complex and costly.
Communities affected by contaminated water have reported health problems similar to those experienced by service members, fueling further legal action. These lawsuits aim not only to secure compensation but also to push for stricter environmental controls and cleanup efforts to prevent future harm.
Multi-District Litigation (MDL) and Its Importance
The legal response to AFFF-related claims has grown into a massive multi-district litigation (MDL), consolidating over 5,000 cases to streamline the judicial process. This MDL allows courts to efficiently handle the complex scientific and legal issues common to these cases while providing a coordinated platform for plaintiffs seeking justice.
The MDL process also helps to ensure consistent rulings and facilitates settlement negotiations, which can expedite compensation for affected individuals. As more service members and community members come forward, the scope of this litigation continues to expand, reflecting the widespread impact of AFFF exposure.
Groundwater Contamination: A Lasting Environmental Hazard
One of the most pressing issues in the AFFF lawsuits is the contamination of groundwater sources. When firefighting foam was used during training or emergencies, PFAS compounds often seeped into the soil and eventually reached underground water supplies. Because these chemicals do not degrade naturally, they accumulate and pose a long-term risk to anyone relying on contaminated water sources.
This contamination has been identified at numerous military bases across the country, affecting both drinking water for the base and nearby residential areas. The implications are severe, as continuous exposure to PFAS through drinking water can lead to the health problems outlined earlier.
Efforts to address this contamination include water testing, installation of filtration systems, and environmental cleanup projects. However, these measures are often slow to implement and may not fully eliminate the risks. The legal actions seek to hold responsible parties accountable for the environmental damage and to fund necessary remediation efforts.
What to Do If You Suspect AFFF Exposure
If you believe you have been exposed to AFFF firefighting foam, particularly on or near a military base, it is critical to take immediate and proactive steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the essential actions to consider:
- Document the Exposure
Keep detailed records of your exposure, including where, when, and how it occurred. This documentation is vital for medical evaluations and any potential legal claims. If you recall specific incidents involving AFFF use during your service or in your community, note these details carefully.
- Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your exposure and undergo a thorough medical evaluation. Inform your doctor about your potential contact with AFFF and PFAS so they can consider appropriate tests and screenings. Blood tests may be conducted to detect PFAS levels and assess your health status.
- Follow Medical Advice
Adhere to any treatment plans or preventive measures recommended by your healthcare provider. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of developing serious conditions linked to PFAS exposure.
- Consult a Qualified Attorney
Consider reaching out to a lawyer who specializes in environmental exposure or toxic tort litigation. Legal experts can help you understand your rights, evaluate your eligibility for joining existing lawsuits, and guide you through the complex legal process. Prompt legal consultation can strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining compensation.
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AFFF Impact On Service Members