Firefighters around the country are just starting the tedious process of removing firefighting foam that contains âforever chemicals.â
This toxic foam contains PFAS, or poly-fluoroalkyl substances, which can remain in the environment and in human bodies. This foam may cause health problems, including cancer. Firefighters have used this foam for more than 20 years to help them put out difficult fires, not knowing it could actually be hurting them.
âWe assumed this chemical was something that was not only effective on the fire ground but also safe to us,â Denver Fire Capt. Greg Pixley said.
In a methodical, step-by-step process, the Denver Fire Department is removing the foam known as AFFF, or aqueous film-forming foam. The fire engines can carry 25-50 gallons of the concentrate. Theyâve called in a company that specializes in hazardous materials removal. They drain and flush all of the fire engines.
