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 8,900 claims have been consolidated in the AFFF MDL (multidistrict litigation), which is similar to a firefighting foam class action lawsuit, as of May 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
"There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans."
– The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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.
Call (800) 995-1212 now to find out if you may qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit. It costs nothing to speak with us.
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. New Deadlines Set in Firefighting Foam Lawsuit
Latest AFFF Lawsuit Update | April 2025
The judge overseeing the firefighting foam lawsuits has set new deadlines for when both sides must share general causation expert reports, which are used to show whether the chemicals in AFFF can cause certain illnesses.
The experts who assist with these reports are often scientists, doctors, or researchers who study the effects of toxic chemicals on the human body.
According to a recent case management order:
- Plaintiffs must submit their reports by July 11, 2025
- Defendants must respond with their own reports by August 22, 2025
These reports play a key role in helping the court understand the science behind how AFFF may cause diseases like liver or thyroid cancer.
2. "Science Day" Scheduled in AFFF Litigation
Firefighter Foam 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.
3. 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.
In 2025, The Guardian published an investigation showing that 3M previously knew the PFAS in their firefighting foam products were dangerous, including minutes from a 1978 meeting that noted certain PFAS “should be regarded as toxic.”
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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. $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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. $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:
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
What is the AFFF lawsuit about?
Firefighters have filed AFFF lawsuits against the manufacturers of firefighting foam, claiming PFAS in these products caused them to develop cancer. As of May 2025, over 8,900 lawsuits have been consolidated in an AFFF MDL.
Contact Sokolove Law now if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a PFAS-related cancer. You may be eligible for AFFF compensation.
Who qualifies for the AFFF lawsuit?
Firefighters diagnosed with PFAS-related illnesses and their immediate family members may be able to file an AFFF lawsuit.
Illnesses that qualify for the AFFF lawsuit include:
- 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
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with one of these illnesses after AFFF exposure, you may be able to take legal action against the companies that made or sold the products you were exposed to.
How do I find the best law firm for AFFF lawsuits near me?
To find the best law firm for an AFFF lawsuit, look for national firms with experience handling firefighting foam lawsuits, a track record of past success, and positive client reviews.
While a local firm may be close to home, these firms often don’t have the resources to fight corporations as large as 3M or DuPont.
At Sokolove Law, our AFFF law firm can help families in all 50 states seek justice. Over the last 45 years, we’ve secured billions of dollars in past results. Call (800) 995-1212 now to see if we may be able to fight for you.
Is there a firefighting foam or AFFF class action lawsuit?
As of May 2025, more than 8,900 claims have been consolidated into an AFFF MDL (multidistrict litigation), which is similar to a firefighting form class action lawsuit.
These claims are being handled in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.
When will the AFFF lawsuit be settled?
The timeline for settling AFFF lawsuits varies depending on the case, like which companies your lawsuit has been filed against and the illnesses involved.
While some cases may settle sooner, others may take longer due to ongoing litigation or negotiations.
How much is the AFFF lawsuit going to pay out?
The amount of money you may receive from an AFFF lawsuit depends on the severity of your illness, how long you were exposed to toxic firefighting foam, and more.
Past results for PFAS contamination linked to firefighting foam include 3M’s $10.3 Billion settlement and Carrier Global’s $730 Million settlement.
Get a free case review now to see if you may qualify for compensation from an AFFF lawsuit.
What is the average payout for the AFFF lawsuit?
It’s difficult to predict the average payout for an AFFF lawsuit, as each case is unique. However, some estimates suggest settlements could be tens of thousands of dollars, if not several hundred thousand in more severe cases.
Is the AFFF lawsuit real?
Yes. Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against companies that made or sold PFAS-containing firefighting foam, and litigation is still ongoing.
If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and later developed cancer or another serious illness, you may be able to seek compensation from a firefighting foam lawsuit. Contact us now to learn more about your options.
What are the AFFF lawsuit tiers?
AFFF lawsuit tiers are a way to divide up cases in the MDL based on the severity of the illness and the strength of evidence involved in the case.
Tier I cases likely include claims involving long-term occupational AFFF exposure and life-threatening cancers or wrongful death. These cases may award victims with the most compensation.
Tier II and Tier III will likely involve cases with less severe conditions or weaker evidence, with compensation decreasing as the severity of the illness and strength of the case lessen.
What companies are in the AFFF lawsuit?
Over 25 companies that made or sold PFAS-containing firefighting foam products have been named in AFFF lawsuits so far, including:
- 3M
- BASF
- Chemours
- DuPont
- Johnson Controls
- Kidde-Fenwal Inc.
- Tyco Fire Products
The lawsuits allege these companies knew or should have known about the dangers of their products but failed to warn the public or take proper safety measures.
If I file a lawsuit, can I still file VA claims for exposure to AFFF?
Yes. Filing a firefighting foam lawsuit won’t impact your ability to file a VA benefits claim for exposure to AFFF.
Veterans who got sick due to military AFFF exposure may be eligible for tax-free payments of over $3,800 a month, depending on their diagnosis.
At Sokolove Law, we have VA-accredited attorneys on staff who may be able to help with both your AFFF lawsuit and your VA claim. Call (800) 995-1212 now to get started.
Can I afford a firefighting foam attorney?
Absolutely. The best firefighting foam attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, which means they don’t charge any upfront costs or hourly fees.
Our AFFF lawyers only get paid if they secure compensation for you. Otherwise, you pay nothing.
What is the AFFF lawsuit deadline?
The AFFF lawsuit deadline varies by state, but in some places, firefighters and their families may only have 1 year after a cancer diagnosis or the death of a loved one to take legal action.
Even if you think the deadline in your case has already passed, exceptions may apply. Contact us now so you don’t miss your chance to take legal action.
How much can I get from a firefighting foam lawsuit settlement?
It’s difficult to predict how much an AFFF or firefighting foam lawsuit settlement may be worth because every case is different.
AFFF lawsuit settlements vary according to factors like:
- Any wages lost because of the illness
- The cost of current and future medical expenses
- The extent of the AFFF exposure
- The severity of injuries
For over 45 years, Sokolove Law has fought to maximize compensation for our clients, and we’ve recovered more than $9.8 Billion for families nationwide.
Call (800) 995-1212 now to find out if you may be eligible for compensation from an AFFF claim.
Is AFFF or firefighter foam still in use?
Yes. Unfortunately, toxic PFAS-based firefighting foam is still being used at a variety of military installations across the country.
However, the Department of Defense is researching PFAS-free foam alternatives to eventually replace the use of AFFF.
