Firefighters, military personnel, and industrial workers risk their health every day to keep the rest of us safe. One hazard that many people don’t realize is the long-term risk associated with firefighting foam, also known as aqueous film-forming foam or AFFF. This foam has been widely used for decades to fight flammable liquid fires, but research shows that exposure to the chemicals in AFFF can lead to serious health problems, including several types of cancer.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to firefighting foam and developed a health condition, you may be entitled to compensation. At Aubrey Givens & Associates, PLLC, we help clients in Nashville, Memphis, Madison, and across Tennessee understand their legal options and fight for justice against the companies responsible.
What Is Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)?
AFFF is a specialized firefighting foam designed to smother petroleum- and jet fuel-based fires. It has been widely used in fire departments, military bases, airports, and industrial settings since at least the 1970s. When mixed with water, AFFF forms a heat-resistant barrier that suffocates flames, making it a valuable tool for fire suppression.
Unfortunately, AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly called PFAS, which are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment. PFAS chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, and studies have linked long-term exposure to multiple serious health conditions.
Health Risks Associated with Firefighting Foam
Research shows that PFAS chemicals in AFFF can lead to a range of illnesses. The most commonly reported conditions linked to exposure include:
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer and thyroid disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Hormonal and immune system disorders
Even low levels of exposure over time can increase the risk of serious health problems. Firefighters, military personnel, airport workers, and industrial employees are at the highest risk due to repeated occupational exposure. Communities living near sites where AFFF was used or stored may also be at risk if local water supplies were contaminated.
Who Is at Risk?
People with the highest likelihood of developing health issues from firefighting foam include:
- Career and volunteer firefighters who used AFFF during training or emergency responses
- Military personnel stationed at bases where AFFF was standard in fire suppression systems
- Airport emergency responders and industrial safety teams
- Residents near contaminated water sources or industrial sites
Even if you were exposed years ago, recent studies suggest that the chemicals can remain in the body for decades, increasing the risk of long-term health complications.
Legal Options for AFFF Exposure Victims
If you have developed a health condition after exposure to firefighting foam, you may be eligible to pursue a legal claim against the manufacturers. Companies such as 3M, DuPont, and other chemical manufacturers have been named in lawsuits for failing to warn workers about the dangers of PFAS in their products.
Working with an experienced AFFF attorney can help you:
- Determine if your exposure qualifies for a legal claim
- Gather medical records and proof of occupational or environmental exposure
- Seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages
- Navigate complex litigation against large chemical companies
At Aubrey Givens & Associates, PLLC, we have extensive experience helping clients across Tennessee pursue justice in cases involving toxic exposures. We guide clients through every step of the process, giving you the support and expertise you need during this challenging time.
Why You Should Contact a Tennessee AFFF Lawyer
Exposure to firefighting foam is a serious matter, and the effects on your health can be long-lasting. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with a condition linked to AFFF exposure, acting quickly is critical. The sooner you consult with a knowledgeable attorney, the sooner you can begin building a strong case and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
At Aubrey Givens & Associates, PLLC, our experienced attorneys provide compassionate and personalized legal guidance for clients across Tennessee. We handle cases in Nashville, Memphis, Lebanon, and surrounding areas, helping individuals and families fight for justice while they focus on recovery.
If you believe you were exposed to firefighting foam and have developed health issues, do not wait. Contact Aubrey Givens & Associates, PLLC today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue a claim and protect your rights.
