Understanding AFFF claims on behalf of deceased firefighters

Compared to the general public, firefighters face greater risks of developing severe and chronic diseases, including cancers, due to more frequent exposure to hazardous substances. These include PFAS, synthetic chemicals commonly found in their firefighting turnout gears, as well as in firefighting foams. Multiple studies found evidence suggesting a connection between PFAS exposure and health issues, including fatal ones, such as:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Male breast cancer
• Thyroid cancer

According to the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), occupational cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters worldwide.

Filing wrongful death claims: An overview

Family members of deceased firefighters can recover compensation through wrongful death claims. When filing, however, claimants must establish a link between the disease and prolonged exposure to AFFF. These can be done by presenting evidence and other supporting documents, such as:

• Medical records: These should indicate the deceased firefighter's diagnosis of linkable diseases. Medical records must also show that the diagnosis had been made during or after service.
• Employment or military records: To show that the deceased has been engaged in active firefighting roles or routinely exposed to AFFF as part of their job (for firefighters assigned to do training exercises).
• Proof of relationship: Documents to prove your relationship with the deceased firefighter. These can be marriage or birth certificates.

It must be emphasized that to secure compensation, claimants should be able to prove that exposure to the toxic PFAS in AFFF occurred in occupational or military settings. Additionally, they need to present proof that the deceased firefighters had performed active firefighting roles for at least two (2) years.

Compensation options

If successful, the families of firefighters who died due to diseases linked to AFFF exposure may be entitled to receive damages. These can be economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost income and future earnings.
• Loss of consortium
• Emotional trauma
• Pain and suffering

Getting help from experts at ELG Law

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one due to cancer related to AFFF exposure, we advise you to consult our attorneys as soon as possible. Our team can provide the legal support you need during these difficult times. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.