At Clinton O. Middleton's Law Offices, we advocate for firefighters exposed to harmful chemicals while performing their crucial duties. Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and firefighter turnout gear are known to be significant sources of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). These substances are associated with various cancers and severe health problems. Our firm is dedicated to holding manufacturers accountable and helping clients get the compensation they need.
How Much Money Can You Get in a PFAS Settlement?
Plaintiffs with the most robust cases and severe health issues are expected to receive settlements between $200,000 and $500,000.
Those in the second tier may receive settlements ranging from $150,000 to $300,000. Plaintiffs in the third tier, who typically have less severe claims and milder conditions, can expect to receive up to $75,000 in settlements.
PFAS Firefighter Lawsuit
Widespread Use of Toxic Chemicals: Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a type of firefighting foam, and firefighter turnout gear containing harmful substances like PFOA and PFOS. These chemicals are part of the PFAS group and are known for being durable and resistant to water, oil, and heat.
Health Risks Identified: (IARC) has labeled PFOA as a "possible cause of cancer in humans." There is strong evidence showing that significant exposure to PFAS can lead to cancer.
Exposure Through Equipment: Firefighters can be exposed to PFAS using AFFF and their turnout gear. As this gear wears down, it can release dust containing PFAS, which firefighters can breathe in.
Long-Term Corporate Knowledge: It is deeply concerning that evidence indicates that companies like 3M and DuPont have known about the harmful effects of PFAS on human health for decades but have continued to manufacture and sell these products, shirking their responsibility to public health.
Cancers Linked to PFAS Exposure
Firefighters who have used AFFF or worn turnout gear containing PFAS and have been diagnosed with any of the following cancers after August 1, 2021, may be eligible for compensation:
- Thyroid cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colon cancer
The Problems with Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in Firefighting
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has long been a vital tool in firefighting, particularly for tackling fuel fires that water alone cannot put out. While it is very effective, the harmful per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) found in AFFF present severe risks to firefighters and the environment.
Essential for Firefighting: AFFF is specially designed to fight high-intensity fires, such as those involving flammable liquids. Its unique ability to create a barrier between the fire and the air reduces the oxygen supply, effectively putting out the fire.
PFAS Content: The PFAS chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS, give AFFF its fire-suppressing power. These substances repel oil and water, enhancing the foam's effectiveness.
Exposure Risks: Firefighters using AFFF face direct exposure to PFAS through inhaling foam particles and skin contact during firefighting and cleanup. It is concerning because PFAS are linked to various cancers and other health problems.
Environmental Impact: Besides health risks for firefighters, using AFFF significantly harms the environment. PFAS chemicals do not break down quickly, leading to long-lasting contamination of water, soil, and ecosystems where AFFF is used.
Regulatory and Health Concerns: As awareness of PFAS toxicity has increased, the use of AFFF has become more scrutinized. Regulatory bodies and health organizations are reassessing its safety and environmental effects, prompting calls for safer alternatives and stricter regulations.
Litigation and Liability: Growing recognition of AFFF's risks has resulted in numerous lawsuits against manufacturers. Plaintiffs say these companies were aware of the dangers of PFAS in AFFF but failed to inform users or provide safer options.
Exploring Safer Alternatives: To address these concerns, firefighters, regulatory agencies, and manufacturers are working together to find PFAS-free alternatives to AFFF that can maintain safety and effectiveness in fire suppression.
PFAS Firefighter Gear
(PFAS) are artificial chemicals widely used in many industries, including firefighting equipment, because of their strong resistance to water, oil, and heat. However, the presence of PFAS in firefighter turnout gear raises serious health concerns:
Common in Firefighting Gear: PFAS, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are often used in firefighter turnout gear for their durability and protective qualities against heat and chemicals.
Durable but Risky: These chemicals don't break down in the environment or the human body, so they are called " forever chemicals." Because they stay around for so long, even small amounts of exposure can add up over time and cause serious health problems.
Ways of Exposure: Firefighters mainly encounter PFAS by inhaling dust particles from the wear and tear of their gear. Skin contact with PFAS-laden gear can also allow these chemicals to be absorbed through the skin, increasing the risk of exposure.
Health Risks: PFAS's persistent nature leads to their accumulation in the human body. This buildup has been linked to various health problems, including several types of cancer, effects on the immune system, and hormonal disruptions.
Regulatory Concerns and Changes: Rising awareness of the health risks tied to PFAS has sparked a call for increased scrutiny and regulation. Some regions have already begun to phase out PFAS, which are found in many products, including firefighting gear, but the enduring impact of their use remains a significant challenge.
Alternatives and Solutions: Firefighters and gear manufacturers actively explore PFAS-free alternatives that maintain safety and effectiveness. However, transitioning to these alternatives will necessitate significant investment and time, underscoring the crucial need for regulatory support and unwavering commitment from the industry.
Ways the Law Offices of Clinton O. Middleton Can Help You
Expert Legal Support: Our team focuses on mass-tort litigation, fighting for those affected by widespread corporate negligence.
Thorough Case Evaluation: We provide detailed assessments to identify the connection between your cancer diagnosis and PFAS exposure.
Seeking Justice: Our mission is to hold those responsible accountable for their actions and secure our clients' highest compensation.
No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay us something if we win money for you.
Contact Us Today
Free Consultation Available: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer that may be linked to PFAS exposure from firefighting foam or gear, get in touch with our team.
Gather Important Documents: Medical records, firefighter employment history, and any documentation of AFFF use or issued turnout gear will help support your case.
Act Quickly: There are time limits, so starting the legal process quickly is essential to protect your rights.
The Law Offices of Clinton O. Middleton are committed to providing top-tier legal representation for firefighters affected by PFAS exposure. We are committed to getting justice and compensation and making those responsible for their actions. If you think you've been affected, contact us today to explore your legal options.
The best way to reach us is through our confidential online contact form, and one of our lawyers will call you back promptly. You can also reach us directly at 703-777-9630.
