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“Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), widely used to fight flammable liquid fires, contains PFAS chemicals known as ‘forever chemicals,’ which persist in the environment and human body and are linked to kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and testicular cancer, as well as thyroid disease and immune system dysfunction.”
This page provides an in-depth discussion of the AFFF Lawsuit, recent updates, health risks from PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam, eligibility for filing a claim, and more.
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), commonly used to fight fires involving flammable liquids, contains PFAS chemicals—synthetic compounds resistant to breaking down in the environment or the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
Prolonged exposure to PFAS has been linked to severe health conditions, including:
Kidney cancer
Bladder cancer
Testicular cancer
Immune system dysfunction
Thyroid disease
Individuals frequently exposed to AFFF during their work are at increased risk, such as:
Firefighters
Military personnel
Airport workers
Industrial site employees
AFFF lawsuits claim that manufacturers failed to warn users about the dangers of PFAS chemicals despite decades of knowledge about their risks. These cases are consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, streamlining thousands of claims to ensure justice.
Claims in the lawsuits include:
Negligence in warning about PFAS risks
Harm caused by long-term exposure
Compensation sought for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages
The AFFF MDL consolidates claims to address common questions about PFAS exposure and manufacturer liability.
Evidence from studies shows a link between PFAS chemicals and various cancers.
Legal teams are building cases on behalf of impacted individuals to hold manufacturers accountable for negligence.
If you or a loved one developed cancer or other health issues after exposure to firefighting foam, you might qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit and seek compensation.
Contact Eric Cardenas LAW's experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers for a free consultation, or take the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to check your eligibility instantly
Our legal team is committed to securing compensation for:
Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Lost wages
Other damages related to PFAS exposure and associated health problems
Manufacturers had a duty to warn users of the dangers associated with prolonged PFAS exposure. Their failure to do so has caused severe harm to countless individuals and their families. We are actively accepting cases to seek justice and accountability for those impacted.
Indiana’s statewide program for collecting and disposing of PFAS-containing firefighting foam will end on December 30, 2024, as the state’s contract with its disposal company concludes. This initiative, led by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) in partnership with the Department of Environmental Management, was designed to protect firefighters from PFAS exposure.
PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” are linked to:
Immune disorders
Developmental issues in children
Cancer, the leading cause of death among firefighters
PFAS-based foams are widely used to combat Class B fires, which involve highly flammable liquids such as gasoline. These chemicals persist in the environment, often contaminating groundwater near military installations like Grissom Air Reserve Base near Kokomo.
Fire departments are encouraged to sign up for the program by December 1. After this deadline, financial constraints may limit similar efforts in the future. This program’s conclusion underscores national challenges in addressing PFAS, which remain prevalent in many consumer products, including non-stick cookware and food packaging.
The EPA has limited certain PFAS compounds, but thousands remain unregulated, posing ongoing public health and environmental challenges.
The AFFF Firefighting Foam Litigation continues, with claims that aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) contains harmful PFAS chemicals linked to severe health risks such as cancer. Plaintiffs assert that manufacturers failed to provide adequate warnings about these dangers.
Case Updates:
October 2024 Case Count: 9,896 cases
November 2024 Case Count: 7,150 cases
The reduction of 2,746 cases resulted from case dismissals and consolidations related to injuries not aligned with the bellwether injury list.
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of South Carolina oversees the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL). The court has established a schedule for the first bellwether trial, which involves a plaintiff with kidney or testicular cancer and is set for October 6, 2025. Plaintiffs with other injuries are following a secondary schedule, with trial dates yet to be determined.
Carrier Global Corp has agreed to settlements totaling $615 million to resolve claims within the AFFF MDL. These agreements address contamination and health risks linked to firefighting foam produced by Carrier’s former subsidiary, Kidde-Fenwal (KFI), which is now in bankruptcy.
PFAS exposure has been linked to severe illnesses such as:
Kidney cancer
Bladder cancer
Testicular cancer
Carrier joins other companies, including 3M and DuPont, in addressing mounting legal and financial pressures from PFAS-related claims. These settlements are part of a larger effort to compensate individuals and communities impacted by AFFF contamination.
Contact Eric Cardenas LAW's experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers for a free consultation, or take the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to check your eligibility instantly.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits focus on claims that manufacturers knowingly exposed firefighters, military personnel, and other workers to toxic firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals without providing adequate warnings about the risks.
AFFF, widely used to suppress fires involving flammable liquids, contains PFAS chemicals known as "forever chemicals." These chemicals resist breaking down, persist in the environment, and remain in human blood indefinitely.
PFAS exposure has been linked to serious health problems, including kidney cancer, bladder cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders.
Manufacturers had evidence showing the dangers of PFAS but continued distributing AFFF without proper warnings.
The foam was used extensively in military operations, firefighting training, and industrial settings, exposing workers to harmful chemicals.
Communities near military bases, industrial sites, and other locations have also experienced contamination of local water supplies.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits aim to hold manufacturers accountable for failing to protect those who relied on their products. Plaintiffs seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages.
There are currently no finalized settlements in the AFFF litigation. However, based on previous mass tort cases, lawyers estimate that individual AFFF lawsuit settlements could range from $20,000 to $500,000 or more.
Factors that May Influence Settlement Amounts:
Severity of the health condition
Length and level of exposure
Strength of the evidence provided in the case
These numbers are estimates, not guarantees, as each case depends on unique circumstances. For specific advice on your case, consult with an experienced AFFF Lawyer.
No, there is no AFFF Class Action Lawsuit.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits have been consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL 2873) in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.
What is MDL, and How Does It Differ from a Class Action?
MDL: A legal process that consolidates similar cases to streamline pre-trial proceedings, share evidence, and ensure consistent rulings. Each case remains individual, allowing for settlements or verdicts specific to the plaintiff’s circumstances.
Class Action: All plaintiffs are grouped into one case, resulting in a single outcome for the group, regardless of individual details.
MDL ensures plaintiffs receive personalized consideration for their exposure and health conditions while improving efficiency in managing a large volume of cases.
For those exposed to AFFF firefighting foam, the MDL provides a structured legal pathway to seek compensation without being grouped into a class action.
Mislabeling of the AFFF Litigation Many law firms and online sources incorrectly refer to the AFFF Litigation as the "AFFF Class Action Lawsuit" or "Firefighting Foam Class Action MDL." These terms are misleading, as the AFFF Firefighting Foam MDL follows a different legal process.
As of October 2024, nearly 9,900 AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits are pending in the MDL.
Lawyers across the country continue to file new lawsuits on behalf of individuals exposed to PFAS chemicals in AFFF who have developed related health conditions.
The plaintiffs are individuals who were exposed to AFFF foam containing PFAS chemicals and subsequently suffered severe health issues, including cancers.
Groups of Plaintiffs:
Military Personnel: Exposed during training exercises and on military bases. The U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard have all used AFFF extensively.
Airport Firefighters: Regularly used AFFF for emergencies and training.
Municipal Firefighters: Exposed to AFFF during firefighting activities.
Affected Communities: Residents of areas where water supplies were contaminated by AFFF use.
Firefighters with Contaminated Gear: Individuals exposed to PFAS chemicals in firefighting equipment.
Defendants include manufacturers and distributors of AFFF and its PFAS chemicals. They are accused of failing to warn users about the risks of exposure despite knowing the dangers.
Defendants in AFFF Lawsuits:
3M Company
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The Chemours Company
Tyco Fire Products LP
Kidde-Fenwal, Inc.
National Foam, Inc.
Chemguard, Inc.
AGC Chemicals
Arkema, Inc.
Dynax Corporation
BASF Corporation
These companies allegedly prioritized profits over safety, leaving workers and communities vulnerable to long-term health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
If you were exposed to AFFF and developed health problems, you may qualify to file a lawsuit. Contact Eric Cardenas LAW, PLLC, for a free consultation, or use the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to check your eligibility today.
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a firefighting tool used to suppress fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline and jet fuel.
Its unique formula quickly forms a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, making it highly effective for controlling these dangerous fires.
AFFF has been widely utilized in the following ways:
Military bases
Airports
Chemical plants
Municipal firefighting operations
Despite its effectiveness, AFFF contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are linked to serious health risks, including:
Cancer
Birth defects
Heart disease
Hormonal imbalances
Government agencies are now working to phase out PFAS-containing firefighting foams and address contamination caused by decades of use. However, many workers and their families face health complications and significant medical expenses due to PFAS exposure from AFFF.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals developed in the 1940s for their:
Water-resistant
Heat-resistant
Grease-repellent properties.
PFAS are used in a variety of products, including:
Non-stick cookware
Waterproof clothing
Food packaging
Firefighting foam (AFFF)
PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because they:
Do not break down easily in the environment.
Accumulate in the human body and the food chain.
Persist for years, leading to long-term contamination.
By the 1990s and 2000s, studies showed widespread PFAS contamination in:
Soil
Water supplies
Human bloodstreams
These findings revealed links between PFAS exposure and:
Cancer
Liver damage
Immune system dysfunction
Concerns about PFAS spurred action by agencies like the EPA and CDC, which classified PFAS as a major public health risk. Lawsuits targeting PFAS manufacturers followed, with plaintiffs seeking accountability for health and environmental damage caused by these chemicals.
The extensive use of PFAS-containing AFFF at military sites has caused widespread contamination.
A 2018 Environmental Working Group (EWG) analysis identified more than 700 U.S. military bases with known or suspected PFAS groundwater contamination.
Contaminated water supplies near military installations far exceed EPA health guidelines.
The DoD’s PFAS Program Fact Sheet (March 2022) outlines steps to:
Identify contamination sites.
Implement cleanup measures.
Address health risks to personnel and surrounding communities.
Despite these efforts, the legacy of PFAS contamination remains a significant environmental and public health challenge. Many military personnel and nearby residents continue to face the consequences of exposure to these harmful chemicals.
Contact Eric Cardenas LAW's experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers for a free consultation, or take the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to check your eligibility instantly.
Exposure to the toxic chemicals in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) poses serious health risks, including life-threatening conditions. AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are labeled as a significant public health concern by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
PFAS are highly dangerous because they:
Accumulate in the bloodstream and organs.
Disrupt normal bodily functions.
Cause harm even at low exposure levels.
The persistence of PFAS in the body makes them particularly hazardous for those exposed over long periods, such as firefighters and military personnel. Ongoing research continues to highlight the severe and often irreversible health impacts of these chemicals.
Contact Eric Cardenas LAW, PLLC, for a free consultation, or use the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to check your eligibility today.
Research shows that AFFF firefighting foam contains PFAS chemicals that accumulate in organs and disrupt cellular functions. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to an increased risk of developing cancer, particularly for individuals with prolonged or frequent contact with AFFF.
The CDC and EPA have identified several cancers associated with PFAS exposure, including:
Bladder cancer
Breast cancer
Colon cancer
Kidney cancer
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer
Rectal cancer
Testicular cancer
Thyroid cancer
Military personnel, firefighters, and others exposed to AFFF are pursuing legal action after developing these cancers. AFFF Cancer Lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by PFAS exposure.
If you or a loved one has been affected, contact our AFFF Cancer Lawyers for a free consultation.
PFAS exposure has been linked to a range of health problems beyond cancer. These chemicals interfere with critical bodily systems, such as:
Immune function
Liver health
Hormonal balance
Long-term PFAS exposure may lead to:
Ulcerative colitis
Thyroid disease
Liver damage
Immune suppression
Reproductive and fertility issues
Elevated cholesterol
Developmental issues in children
Hormonal imbalances
Cardiovascular disease
Kidney dysfunction
These conditions often develop silently over years of exposure, causing chronic health challenges and significantly reducing quality of life.
Extensive scientific research has highlighted the dangers of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and its toxic PFAS compounds, often referred to as "forever chemicals." These studies have established strong links between PFAS exposure and a wide array of serious health conditions.
AFFF use was prevalent among firefighters, military personnel, and industrial workers, exposing them to PFAS repeatedly and at dangerously high levels. This research has been instrumental in raising awareness, prompting regulatory actions, and forming the basis of the AFFF Lawsuit.
Here are key studies demonstrating the health risks of PFAS exposure:
A 2020 study by the National Cancer Institute found that higher levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in blood serum were associated with a significantly increased risk of renal cell carcinoma.
Research by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) identified an elevated risk of bladder cancer in individuals with significant exposure to PFAS-containing AFFF.
The C8 Health Project, a comprehensive study on PFAS exposure, established a probable link between PFAS and testicular cancer, highlighting the long-term risks of exposure.
Studies have associated PFAS exposure with the development of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.
A 2023 study reviewed how PFAS exposure weakens the immune system, impairing vaccine efficacy and reducing immune responses.
Research published in 2022 found that high levels of PFAS in the body increase the risk of thyroid cancer and thyroid disease, showcasing the disruption of endocrine functions.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) linked PFAS exposure to fertility issues and developmental problems in children.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlighted research indicating a connection between PFAS exposure and cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension.
Exposure to AFFF firefighting foam typically happens through occupational contact or environmental contamination. The most common exposure pathways include:
Direct Contact: Firefighters, military personnel, and airport workers handle AFFF during fire suppression and training exercises.
Environmental Contamination: AFFF use has led to the contamination of groundwater near military bases, airports, and industrial sites, impacting surrounding communities.
Inhalation or Ingestion: PFAS can enter the body through inhaling foam vapors or consuming contaminated food and water.
The MDL 2873 litigation notes the following regarding AFFF exposure:
“These cases involve varied causes of action and claims relating to per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Plaintiffs generally allege that aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) containing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and/or perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) contaminated groundwater near military bases, airports, and other industrial sites where AFFF was used to extinguish liquid fuel fires.”
If you or a loved one has been exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and subsequently developed health issues, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more.
If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and have developed cancer or other serious health conditions linked to PFAS chemicals, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), widely used to fight flammable liquid fires, contains PFAS chemicals known as ‘forever chemicals,’ which persist in the environment and human body and are linked to kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and testicular cancer, as well as thyroid disease and immune system dysfunction.
The manufacturers and distributors of AFFF failed to warn users about the risks, putting many people at risk of serious, life-altering illnesses.
To explore your legal options, contact the AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawyers at Eric Cardenas LAW for a free consultation.
Use the confidential Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine if you are eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.
Our lawyers will guide you through the legal process, from gathering evidence to assessing damages, while keeping you informed about the progress of your claim and the broader developments in the AFFF MDL.
Evidence is critical for establishing the link between your exposure to AFFF firefighting foam and the health issues you’ve experienced. Strong documentation improves the likelihood of recovering fair compensation for damages.
An experienced AFFF Lawyer can assist in gathering and preserving essential evidence, which may include:
Medical Records: Documentation of your diagnosis and treatment for health conditions associated with PFAS exposure.
Employment Records: Proof of your work history in firefighting or related industries that used AFFF.
Witness Statements: Testimony from coworkers or others who can confirm your exposure to AFFF.
Workplace Documentation: Records showing the use of AFFF at your workplace, such as safety data sheets or incident reports.
Training Records: Logs of firefighting training or events where AFFF was utilized.
Expert Testimony: Opinions from medical or scientific experts linking your exposure to PFAS with your specific health conditions.
Damages refer to the compensation awarded to individuals who have suffered harm due to negligence. In an AFFF Cancer Lawsuit, damages aim to address the financial, physical, and emotional toll of PFAS exposure.
Proper assessment of damages ensures fair compensation for the impact exposure has had on your life.
Damages in an AFFF Lawsuit may include:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering or emotional distress
Lost earning ability
Loss of enjoyment of life
Permanent disability
Future medical expenses and therapy costs
Loss of consortium
Other compensatory or punitive damages
It is essential to contact an attorney experienced in toxic torts, chemical exposure, and personal injury lawsuits to evaluate your potential case.
Experienced Firefighting Foam Attorneys will:
Navigate the complexities of your case.
Work to prove liability.
Ensure your claim is as strong as possible.
Lawyers at Eric Cardenas LAW understand the challenges faced by individuals diagnosed with cancer and other health issues caused by AFFF exposure. Our firm works tirelessly to ensure clients are fully compensated for the harm they have suffered.
Choose your legal representation carefully to ensure they are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer’s experience can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
Our attorneys are investigating claims that frequent use of hair straightening chemicals increases the risk of uterine cancer.
Contact us for a free consultation or use the Instant Qualifying Quiz on this page to determine if you can file a lawsuit against chemical hair straightener manufacturers for failing to warn consumers about cancer risks.
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Class-B aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) contain PFAS chemicals linked to serious health risks. These foams have been widely used to extinguish flammable liquid fires, such as those involving gasoline or jet fuel.
AFFF has been extensively used by:
Military branches (Navy, Air Force, Army) in hangars, on bases, and during training.
Municipal fire departments, airport firefighting units, and industrial facilities.
The foam’s widespread use, combined with the persistence of PFAS in the environment, has resulted in significant contamination and severe health concerns for exposed individuals.
Yes. AFFF contains PFAS chemicals, which are toxic and linked to health issues like cancer, birth defects, and chronic illnesses.
Cancers associated with AFFF exposure include:
Bladder cancer
Breast cancer
Colon cancer
Kidney cancer
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer
Rectal cancer
Testicular cancer
Thyroid cancer
Those most at risk include individuals who handled or were exposed to AFFF in their work or lived near contaminated areas.
High-risk groups include:
Airport and military firefighters
Municipal firefighters
Industrial workers in refineries or similar facilities
Flight deck personnel
Workers at AFFF manufacturing companies
Transporters of AFFF firefighting foam
Incinerator workers responsible for AFFF disposal
Individuals may also face exposure through contaminated drinking water, though water contamination cases are not included in the AFFF MDL.
The time frame to file a lawsuit depends on when a person reasonably discovered the link between their diagnosis and AFFF exposure.
States often allow extensions for cases involving products previously not known to cause harm. Contact our firm for specific guidance on filing deadlines in your case.
Experienced attorneys can guide you through every step of the legal process. They assist with:
Gathering evidence to support your claim.
Assessing damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
Identifying responsible parties and proving liability.
Answering your questions and managing legal complexities.
Negotiating
Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means:
You pay no upfront fees.
Legal fees are only charged if you win your case.
This arrangement ensures access to legal representation regardless of your financial situation, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Yes. If a loved one passed away from health complications linked to AFFF exposure, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
These claims can seek compensation for:
Medical expenses
Funeral costs
Lost income
Emotional pain
Contact us to discuss your family’s eligibility for a wrongful death lawsuit.
The AFFF MDL consolidates firefighting foam lawsuits in the U.S. District Court: District of South Carolina to streamline pretrial procedures for cases with similar claims.
This process ensures consistency in rulings and settlement amounts while allowing each case to be individually evaluated.
Settlement amounts have yet to be determined, but projections based on similar mass tort cases suggest potential payouts between $20,000 and $500,000, depending on:
The severity of the illness.
The extent of exposure.
Bellwether trials will set precedents that influence future settlements. Contact us to discuss potential compensation for your AFFF lawsuit claim.
If you’ve experienced complications such as cancer after being exposed to AFFF Firefighting Foam, contact Eric Cardenas LAW for a free consultation to explore your legal options.