Florida AFFF (Firefighting Foam) Contamination Lawsuit

What Is AFFF Used for?

AFFF – Aqueous Film Forming Foam – is a Firefighting suppressant used for petroleum-based fires. This suppressant is mostly only used by firefighters and on military bases and airports. This is due to the large amounts of petroleum that is usually stored in these facilities in order to refuel ships, planes, jets, and other large vehicles.

AFFF Background

AFFF is used to put out fires but the chemicals that make the firefighting foam get into the surrounding environment. The class of chemicals that make up the fire suppressant are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The specific PFAS chemicals that are found in AFFF are perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they are non-biodegradable. This is why these chemicals are found in products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain resistant fabrics and carpets, cosmetics, firefighting foams, and products that resist grease, water, and oil.

The Side Effects of AFFF

Chemicals that are non-biodegradable can do a ton of damage in your system when ingested. Consumption of AFFF has been linked to the following injuries:

  • Kidney cancer
  • Testicular cancer
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Thyroid disease
  • Liver cancer
  • Ulcerative colitis

Areas of Florida with AFFF Contamination

For most states, AFFF usually effects the areas within and surrounding military bases and airports but Florida is an exception due to the space industry.

  • Miami
  • Cape Canaveral Air Force Station  
  • Eglin Air Force Base in Okaloosa County
  • Naval Air Station Jacksonville
  • Naval Air Station Pensacola
  • Patrick Air Force Base
  • Satellite Beach
  • Cocoa Beach

Filing a Lawsuit in Florida for AFFF

If you or someone you know were contaminated with AFFF and are now diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver cancer, thyroid cancer, or ulcerative colitis, please feel free to contact our experts at Douglas & London. You may be entitled to compensation and you don’t pay unless we win. To apply for a free consultation, fill out the form on the side of the screen, chat with us or give us a call at (212) 566-7500.