How can you protect yourself and others from firefighting foam injuries?

How can firefighting foam cause injury?

Firefighting foam injuries occur due to chemical exposure that causes different types of cancer. Individuals at risk include firefighters, and in particular, those who have used foam to put out fires involving petroleum and jet fuel.

What is firefighting foam?

The foam is a mass of air bubbles that coats the fire preventing oxygen contact. Blocking out the oxygen extinguishes the fire.

What chemicals in the foam are harmful to firefighters?

The foam contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), researchers have linked these chemicals to cancer in firefighters. Workers come in contact with the chemicals through touch or by breathing in the PFAS released into the air while using the foam.

What types of cancer do PFAS cause?

According to the National Cancer Institute, researchers have observed PFAS exposure linked with the following types of cancer:

How can firefighters protect themselves against the hazards of PFAS?

Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommend that firefighters learn about the sources of PFAS so they can avoid exposure. Their protective gear may even contain PFAS that put them at risk. Inner layers of textile containing PFAS has lower concentration than the outer textile layers. Studies are ongoing to determine the extent of exposure firefighters have experienced with PFAS from their workplace. This is in an effort to establish safe equipment standards.

Do you need legal help in a firefighting foam injuries case?

The Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz represents victims of firefighting foam injuries cases. We have handled cases for clients from McAllen, Corpus Christi, South Padre Island and other locations throughout Texas. Our firm also represents clients nationwide, in California, Arizona, New Mexico and other states.

Arrange a free consultation to discuss your case.