The Environmental Impact of AFFF
By Jack Shaw
Fires destroy property, and the resulting emissions worsen climate change. Putting them out is difficult and opens up an entirely new can of ecological worms. What is the environmental impact of AFFF? Do any realistic alternatives exist, and how can society act together to minimize its use?
What Is AFFF?
AFFF stands for aqueous film-forming foam. It’s a type of frontline defense firefighters use to put out flames caused by flammable liquids. It contains a mix of water and various chemicals that create a thin, heat-resistant foam on the surface of such liquids, preventing them from reigniting. This barrier also inhibits oxygen from reaching the fuel source and suppresses vapor release.
AFFF isn’t the stuff you typically find in your average household fire extinguisher. It’s usually stored as a concentrate and mixed with water before use, typically through the fire hoses and sprayers fire departments use.
How Is AFFF Most Often Used?
AFFF is, therefore, most often used by fire departments. However, you’ll also find it in these other four common locations where flammable liquid fires are more likely to occur:
> Industrial use: Many industrial centers install fixed foam systems because of high fire risks. When sensors detect a fire, these systems automatically deploy to prevent escalation and further damage.
> Aviation use: Jet fuel is highly flammable. Aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles come equipped with AFFF to douse flames on planes and tarmacs quickly.
> Military use: Military-grade AFFF douses flames on military vehicles, naval vessels and aircraft. It’s contained in equipment meant to withstand harsh environments.
> First responder use: Municipal firefighters and emergency responders also use AFFF to douse flames at accidents.
AFFF use can prevent fires from spreading in any of the above scenarios. For example, vehicle fires can easily ignite roadside scrub that can spread over wide areas in no time. One such blaze recently became California’s largest wildfire this year after a man pushed a blazing car into a gully.
Most vehicle fires don’t erupt as a result of deliberate intent. Many occur because of manufacturer defects within the car itself that prompt a later recall. However, recalls don’t restore acreage lost to wildfire. Other common causes of car fires include poor maintenance — such as sparks from worn brake pads — electrical issues and improper towing. Chains dragging on asphalt at high speeds create a lot of friction.
The Impact of Fire on the Environment — AFFF Concerns, Fire and the Big Picture
AFFF poses environmental concerns because of the chemicals it contains called fluorosurfactants. These chemicals fall under the collective blanket of PFAS and break down very slowly. Therefore, they can build up in water, soil and living organisms, causing a myriad of adverse health effects.
PFAS are commonly known as “forever chemicals” in the popular media. Researchers from Purdue University discovered that these substances interrupted the growth process of tadpoles developing into frogs. Many also express concern about exposure to PFAS and rising cancer rates — a recent lawsuit filed in South Carolina claims it resulted in testicular cancer.
Alternatives to AFFF exist, including:
> Carbon dioxide: It disperses oxygen from the affected area but can be dangerous in confined spaces.
> Environmentally friendly foams: They’re designed to be free of PFAs
> Dry chemical agents: These work particularly well against Class B fires caused by flammable liquids.
> Water-based systems: For example, industrial settings often use sprinklers.
Proper cleanup methods can also minimize the impact of AFFF on the environment. Firefighters must maintain a delicate balancing act when choosing the best substance to extinguish a blaze.
Fires emitted 640 million metric tons of carbon in 2023, so controlling them quickly also protects the environment. Nevertheless, transitioning to greener alternatives is a must to prevent the accumulation of PFAS in soil and water and the resulting adverse effects on human and animal life.
Wise Fire Protection Tips Anyone Can Follow to Decrease AFFF Use
It may not seem like you can do much to decrease AFFF use, especially if you don’t work in one of the industries listed above. However, everyone shares responsibility for preventing fires and stopping their spread should one erupt.
One person can spark a blaze — or potentially save hundreds of lives. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Keep Fire Safety Equipment on Hand and Test It Regularly
Your home should have fire detectors in the following locations:
> Each floor
> Each sleeping area
> The hallways outside sleeping areas
Additionally, every house needs at least one fire extinguisher. You should inspect it monthly, looking for signs of rust, dents or any other indications it may not function as it should.
Furthermore, test your smoke alarms. Making a schedule — perhaps coordinating these tests with paying your rent or mortgage to make it easier to remember — keeps you on track.
2. Avoid Leaving Stoves and Fires Unattended
When cooking, stay in the kitchen. Many a fire has started after someone put something on the stove to boil, laid down on the couch to await their dinner and fallen asleep. Don’t leave candles or incense burning unattended.
Going camping? Never leave a campfire unattended, and ensure you bring plenty of water and an extinguisher to douse the flames.
3. Store Flammable Liquids Properly
Read labels carefully and follow the instructions. Always use approved containers, ensure you have adequate ventilation, keep them away from heat and flame, and consider investing in an approved storage cabinet for such materials.
4. Inspect Your Heat Sources
If you use space heaters, ensure they have no frayed cords or other signs of damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, place them on flat, non-flammable surfaces and never leave them running unattended.
5. Maintain Your Electrical Systems
Pay attention to signs your home’s electrical systems may need attention and call for help when necessary:
> Hot outlets
> Flickering lights
> A burning smell
> Shocks when touching metal surfaces
> Loose outlets
> Signs of rodent infestation
How AFFF Affects the Environment
AFFF can quickly douse fires, but at an environmental cost. The forever chemicals it contains can enter soil and waterways, posing health risks to ecosystems and human beings alike. Switching to friendlier alternatives is one solution — preventing fires from happening in the first place is the ultimate goal.
Jack Shaw is the senior editor of the men’s lifestyle magazine Modded and has written extensively about electric vehicles, sustainable practices, and maintaining a green lifestyle through your everyday actions. His writing can be found in Green Living Journal, Packaging Digest, EcoHotels, and more. Connect with him via his LinkedIn.