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Firefighters Exposed to AFFF Firefighting Foam May be Eligible for Compensation

firefighter using foamSchmidt Kramer is currently investigating defective product claims involving Aqueous Film Forming Foam, which is also known as AFFF firefighting foam. This substance has been linked to several types of cancer, including breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer and prostate cancer.

If you were regularly exposed to this substance – as many were while working as civilian or military firefighters – and were diagnosed with cancer, you may be eligible to seek compensation for medical costs and other damages. It is important to discuss things with a licensed attorney to learn if you may have a valid case and what it may be worth.

Contact Schmidt Kramer today to learn more about your potential options. The initial consultation is free and there is no obligation to take legal action.

Defective product cases are often complex, and you may greatly benefit from having an experienced lawyer helping you. Those who hire attorneys often recover more compensation compared to those who do not.

Compensation for Victims of AFFF Firefighting Foam

Those who developed cancer because of their exposure to this chemical may be eligible to seek compensation for physical, financial and emotional losses.

This may include compensation to pay for the cost of past and future treatment of your cancer. You should be able to claim most of your medical costs, including bills for:

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Prescription medication
  • Durable medical equipment
  • In-home health care services
  • And more

Your physical pain and suffering may also be included in your claim for compensation. You may be able to claim lost wages and lost earning capacity as well.

If your loved one passes away before the case concludes, you may be eligible to seek compensation for wrongful death. This may include compensation for things like lost companionship and loss of guidance, comfort and support.

It is important to discuss the situation with a licensed attorney to determine all the damages that may be claimed and their potential value.

Dangers of AFFF Firefighting Foam

AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are linked to cancer. In fact, manufacturers of the firefighting foam were aware of the dangers of PFAS for decades, as studies done by the Department of Defense (DOD) confirm. These studies revealed the firefighting foam used on military bases and ships was toxic.

A decade later, studies of animals done by the Air Force showed PFAS may be dangerous to the environment and peoples’ health.

In 1991, the U.S. Army urged Fort Carson to stop the use of AFFF because it was hazardous. However, it was not until 2011 that a Chemical and Material Emerging Risk Alert for AFFF was released by the DOD.

It was not until 2016 that the DOD directed the military to prevent uncontrolled release of AFFF into the environment. The DOD also directed the military to properly dispose of AFFF.

Those exposed to AFFF and PFAS may be at higher risk for developing various forms of cancer, including:

  • Prostate cancer
  • Testicular cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Bladder cancer
  • Breast cancer

While anyone exposed to AFFF on a regular basis could be at risk for serious health complications, military and civilian firefighters who worked at airports may be at the greatest risk.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Product manufacturers like 3M and Dupont, and those who selected dangerous products to be used by employees may be liable for the damages these decisions may cause.

Schmidt Kramer is currently investigating claims related to AFFF firefighting foam. If you or a loved one developed cancer because of your exposure to this substance, you may be eligible to seek compensation. Our Pennsylvania defective product attorneys are dedicated to seeking maximum compensation for those injured due to negligence related to a product or drug.

The initial consultation is free and there are no upfront fees.

Call today to learn more. Phone: (717) 888-8888.