Firefighting Foam & AFFF Lawsuit

Firefighter Foam Lawsuit for AFFF Exposure

Firefighting foam has been widely used by the military, fire departments, and private corporations to extinguish jet fuel and petroleum fires.

However, dangerous chemicals known as PFAS are used to make firefighting foam. Exposure to PFAS in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) has been linked to over a dozen cancers in firefighters, prompting many to take legal action.

AFFF Litigation Updates at a Glance

• Over 8,400 claims have been consolidated in the AFFF MDL (multidistrict litigation), which is similar to a firefighting foam class action lawsuit, as of March 2025.
• Billions of dollars have already been awarded in PFAS settlements, including an over $1 Billion settlement involving companies like DuPont and Chemours, whose PFAS chemicals were used to make AFFF.
• AFFF lawsuits have been filed against over 25 separate companies, including 3M, BASF, and Tyco Fire Products.

By filing a firefighting foam lawsuit for AFFF exposure, you can get help holding negligent manufacturers accountable and seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.

“For decades, I made a career of putting my life on the line, working to protect the lives and health of others; many times, this involved the use of AFFF. Now that I’m retired, and suffering from thyroid cancer, I was able to turn to Sokolove Law. They answered my call promptly, honestly, and efficiently, and I look forward to their help."
– Randall M., Firm AFFF Client

At Sokolove Law, we believe no firefighter should have to suffer because of corporate negligence. Our firm has already secured over $9.8 Billion total for clients nationwide — and we may be able to fight for your family too.

The Link Between Toxic Firefighting Foam and Cancer

Chemical-based firefighting foam called AFFF has been sold for decades. However, the deadly side effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in AFFF are now widely known.

Occupational cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters, and exposure to toxic firefighting foam may be partly to blame.

PFAS exposure can cause several types of cancer and other serious illnesses:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Leukemia
• Liver cancer
• Lymphoma
• Multiple myeloma
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Renal or kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer and disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Uterine or endometrial cancer

Any firefighter may be at an increased risk of cancer if they’ve been exposed to AFFF. Airport and military firefighters may be at a higher risk of developing certain cancers due to more frequent exposure to the foam.

Firefighters Stationed at Airports

From 1988 until 2018, the Federal Airport Administration (FAA) required airports to use PFAS-containing firefighter foam, putting the health of airport firefighters at risk.

AFFF was specifically used because water is not as effective on fires started by jet fuel — something firefighters may encounter during both emergencies and routine training exercises.

Military Firefighters

The U.S. Navy and other branches of the military have used firefighting foam since the 1960s, even during training exercises and non-critical missions. It was particularly favored by military fire departments since it could put out jet fuel fires.

The military has historically been one of the largest users of AFFF, accounting for an estimated 75% of all firefighting foam usage, according to the National Fire Sprinkler Association.

The military is currently phasing out the use of AFFF as the Department of Defense (DOD) seeks viable PFAS-free firefighting foam alternatives to curb PFAS contamination.

Fuel Industry Firefighters

Firefighting foam was a necessity for those working on fuel tank farms and oil refineries, as PFAS are particularly effective in fighting liquid fuel-based fires.

Larger refineries may have upwards of 20,000-40,000 gallons of AFFF concentrate on hand, according to a former global emergency response manager for Shell Oil.

However, petroleum facilities have been slow to phase out the use of AFFF due to concerns over the safety and efficacy of alternatives.

PFAS Water Contamination Victims

Facilities that use or manufacture PFAS-containing products like nonstick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foam may release these chemicals during production or disposal.

PFAS can then seep into the soil and groundwater, contaminating drinking water sources on military bases or in public water systems.

If you were exposed to PFAS in water, you may be at risk of developing:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Liver cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid diseases like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or Hashimoto's disease
• Ulcerative colitis

Former PFAS-containing product manufacturer 3M reached a $10.3 Billion PFAS water settlement with multiple U.S. cities and towns in 2023.

If you have one of these illnesses, you may be eligible to pursue PFAS water contamination lawsuit settlements. Living near a military base that uses AFFF or in a town with PFAS-contaminated drinking water can put you at greater risk.

AFFF Lawsuit Qualifications & Eligibility

To meet AFFF lawsuit qualifications, you or a loved one must have been exposed to firefighting foam on the job and later diagnosed with a related cancer as a result.

You may be able to file an AFFF lawsuit if you’re the:

• Firefighter who developed cancer or another illness after PFAS exposure
• Immediate family members of the affected firefighter
• Estate representative of the AFFF exposure victim

You only have a limited amount of time to file a firefighting foam lawsuit due to state laws known as statutes of limitation. Don’t wait to pursue justice until it’s too late.

Past AFFF Lawsuit Payout Amounts

Some companies may have known about the health risks of their foams for decades but didn’t take sufficient action to protect the general public.

As a result, firefighters, military personnel, and others exposed to toxic firefighting foam may be able to seek compensation from an AFFF lawsuit.

Past AFFF lawsuit settlements include:

• $10.3 Billion to resolve multiple PFAS contamination cases caused in part by 3M’s AFFF products
• Over $1 Billion from DuPont, Corveta, and Chemours to settle PFAS claims, including some involved in the AFFF MDL
• $730 Million from Carrier Global to their fire protection unit Kidde-Fenwal and families impacted by harmful chemicals in the company’s AFFF products
• $17.5 Million for victims in Wisconsin who were exposed to PFAS from Tyco Fire Products
• $316.5 Million to address contamination caused by BASF’s firefighting foam products
• $750 Million from Johnson Controls and their subsidiary Tyco Fire Products for toxic chemicals found in their firefighting foam

An AFFF lawsuit payout can help patients and their loved ones afford medical bills, everyday living expenses, and other unexpected costs that may stem from a PFAS-related illness.

If you have a case, our AFFF law firm will work hard to get you everything you’re entitled to. Contact us now to get started.

How Do AFFF & Firefighting Foam Lawsuits Work?

Generally speaking, filing an AFFF lawsuit involves your legal team finding evidence to prove your PFAS exposure history, establishing the manufacturers knew the risks, and filing your claim.

After a free case review with Sokolove Law, every step of the AFFF cancer lawsuit process can be handled by our experienced legal team, so you can focus on your health and your family.

When you work with us, your firefighting foam lawyer can:

• Determine your eligibility to file an AFFF lawsuit
• Gather evidence from your medical and work histories that proves your exposure to PFAS
• File your AFFF lawsuit within any deadlines or statutes of limitations
• Negotiate a firefighting foam settlement
• Fight on your behalf in court before a jury if a settlement isn't reached

We strive to make filing a lawsuit as easy and stress-free as possible by handling all of the legal legwork for you.

“I reached out to Sokolove Law after a friend told me about a lawsuit against chemical foam manufacturers. They found I may be eligible for a lawsuit and compensation for cancer. The process was easy and professional.”
– Joe M., Firm AFFF Client 

AFFF Lawsuit Update & News 2024-2025

Firefighter foam lawsuits have been consolidated into an AFFF class action or multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Find out more about the latest firefighting foam and AFFF lawsuit news.

1. "Science Day" Scheduled in AFFF Litigation

Latest AFFF Lawsuit Update | March 2025

The court has scheduled a "Science Day" in the firefighting foam lawsuit for June 6 to examine the link between AFFF exposure, liver cancer, and thyroid cancer.

During this educational session, both sides will present evidence to help the court understand the relationship between PFAS and these cancers. While the presentations won't serve as formal evidence in the AFFF lawsuit, they could help the court decide which scientific arguments may be used in future cases.

2. Documents Show 3M Knew PFAS Were Toxic

AFFF Lawsuit News | February 2025

For years, 3M maintained that their firefighting foams were harmless, downplaying the risks of PFAS exposure — but internal company documents show otherwise.

These documents also highlight that evidence was available regarding PFAS not breaking down in the environment as early as 1949. Decades later, the CDC now claims nearly all Americans have PFAS in their blood, leading many cities to take action as well.

3. AFFF Ulcerative Colitis Lawsuits

Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update | January 2025 

Lawyers for both the plaintiffs and the defense are working to identify ulcerative colitis cases that may go to trial in the future. A new court order is in place to guide the discovery or evidence-gathering process for cases where ulcerative colitis is the primary injury.

If approved, this could lead to a separate trial focusing on AFFF ulcerative colitis claims and help to determine how much these cases might be worth.

4. AFFF Exposure Sites

AFFF MDL Update | December 2024 

Lawyers for both the victims and companies are working to put together a list of key sites where AFFF was used, potentially leading to PFAS contamination.

These sites will play a central role in the evidence collection process as specific AFFF products are identified and named in firefighting foam lawsuits.

5. $730 Million Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Settlement

Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update | November 2024

Carrier Global has agreed to a $730 Million AFFF lawsuit settlement with their subsidiary, fire protection company Kidde-Fenwal.

After being named in more than 4,400 PFAS lawsuits, Kidde-Fenwal filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2023.

The company plans to use a portion of the settlement to pay those who were affected by exposure to PFAS in the company’s firefighting foam products.

6. Illnesses Selected for First AFFF Trials

AFFF Lawsuit News | August 2024

Initial AFFF trials will help predict how similar claims may be resolved in the future and how much victims may be owed.

The first AFFF trials will focus on cases involving:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Ulcerative colitis

As part of the process, lawyers for both sides are working to select 25 plaintiffs who were exposed at one of two key contamination sites. These cases will serve as bellwether trials or test cases to help gauge how juries may respond to the evidence.

7. Study Confirms PFAS Can Absorb Through the Skin

Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update | July 2024

A new study confirmed that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin and enter the body’s bloodstream, which may lead to certain cancers and other illnesses years later.

“Uptake through the skin could be a significant source of exposure to these harmful chemicals,” explained Dr. Oddný Ragnarsdóttir, lead author of the study.

The study further supports claims by firefighters that, in addition to PFAS found in AFFF, these chemicals may also cause serious illnesses when used in turnout or bunker gear.

8. Connecticut Firefighters File PFAS Lawsuit

Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update | June 2024

Firefighters in Connecticut have filed a lawsuit against 3M, Honeywell, and other companies they believe are responsible for PFAS in their turnout gear. The lawsuit claims that exposure to these harmful chemicals may cause serious health issues.

The proposed class action may be the first of its kind to exclusively address the use of these chemicals in safety equipment for firefighters, rather than just in AFFF.

9. Judge Approves $1 Billion DuPont Settlement

AFFF Lawsuit News | February 2024

A judge has approved a $1.185 Billion settlement from DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva to resolve claims related to PFAS contamination, including contamination caused by firefighting foam.

These companies were involved in the production of PFAS components, which were used in AFFF. The toxic chemicals have since been linked to various health risks, including over a dozen cancers and other serious illnesses.

10. Three AFFF Victims Pass Away

AFFF MDL Update | November 2023

Three AFFF contamination victims have passed away since filing their claims, highlighting the human toll associated with this issue and the urgency in addressing lawsuit delays.

Their lawyers filed suggestion of death notices to make the court aware of their passing. Currently, over 6,000 claims are pending in the AFFF MDL in South Carolina.

11. Study Links PFAS to Testicular Cancer

AFFF Lawsuit News | August 2023

A study involving members of the U.S. Air Force and military firefighters revealed a concerning link between exposure to PFOS, a specific type of PFAS chemical, and an increased risk of testicular cancer.

Researchers tested blood samples of 530 service members who had been diagnosed with testicular cancer. Each was found to have elevated levels of PFOS in their blood compared to service members without cancer.

12. $10.3 Billion 3M Firefighting Foam Settlement

Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update | June 2023

In 2018, the city of Stuart, Florida sued 3M, claiming the chemical company's production of PFAS-containing products like firefighting foam contaminated their soil and groundwater.

After additional cities joined the nearly 5-year-long battle, 3M agreed to an initial $10.3 Billion settlement with the U.S. public water systems, providing vital funds to help with cleaning up the water pollution.

The settlement will be paid out over the next 13 years, and the company has agreed to stop using PFAS by 2025.

At Sokolove Law, we’re committed to providing you with the latest firefighter foam lawsuit updates, and we’ll keep you posted as your AFFF claim progresses.

Choosing the Best Law Firm for the AFFF Lawsuit

A skilled and experienced legal team can handle every step of the AFFF lawsuit process on your behalf and fight for the most compensation possible if you have a case. However, not all firefighting foam law firms can offer you the same advantages.

Find out what makes our AFFF law firm stand out from the rest:

• Free Case Reviews: Sokolove Law offers free legal consultations, so you can find out if you may have a case without any financial risk.
• Billions Recovered for Clients: Our law firm has successfully secured more than $9.8 Billion for our clients.
• Nationwide Legal Representation: We can help firefighters in all 50 states seek the justice they deserve.
• Decades of Experience: Over the last 45 years, we’ve helped clients across the country get compensation for their injuries.
• No Upfront Fees: Our AFFF lawyers work on a contingency-fee basis, so we’ll only get paid if you do.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer after working with AFFF, our firefighting foam cancer lawyers have what it takes to help you pursue financial compensation from an AFFF lawsuit.

What Is AFFF Exposure?

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a combination of water, pressurized air, and PFAS. This mixture creates a blanket that cuts off the fuel from the oxygen it needs to burn, effectively smothering the fire.

One of the main ingredients of firefighter foam, however, is dangerous chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The EPA uses PFAS as an umbrella term to refer to a group of chemicals that includes:

• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA or C8)
• Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)
• Other PFA substances

PFAS are man-made chemicals that don’t break down over time. Once firefighting foam is used, these chemicals can remain in the environment or within a person’s body for decades, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

In 2022, the EPA classified PFOS and PFOA, two of the most common PFAS found in firefighting foam, as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).

AFFF Exposure Symptoms

Exposure to toxic firefighting foam, especially over long periods, has been linked to multiple serious health conditions, including cancer.

Symptoms of illnesses caused by AFFF exposure may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Blood in the urine
• Bruising or bleeding
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained lumps
• Unexplained weight loss

Symptoms may take a while to appear after exposure, which makes it important for firefighters to keep track of their health over time. If you experience any of these symptoms after AFFF exposure, be sure to talk with your doctor.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, AFFF compensation may be available to help you manage the financial burden of treatment and recovery.

Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Qualifications

Sokolove Law: Our AFFF Lawsuit Lawyers Can Help Nationwide

The firefighting foam lawyers at Sokolove Law are currently investigating cases involving cancer after occupational exposure to firefighting foam.

Our AFFF lawsuit lawyers can help families in all 50 states seek justice for PFAS exposure and compensation for their illness.

With over 45 years of experience fighting for those injured through no fault of their own, we've recovered more than $9.8 Billion for clients nationwide.

Through a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit, you may be able to receive financial compensation for your injuries due to PFAS exposure. We will listen to your story and help you understand your legal options.

Call (800) 995-1212 now or fill out our contact form to start your free legal consultation.

Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit FAQs