Maine’s failure to manage stocks of PFAS-containing firefighting foam has led to environmental hazards and potential health risks, highlighted by a recent spill in Brunswick.
Marina Schauffler reports for Maine Morning Star.
In short:
- Maine has an estimated 40,000 gallons of firefighting foam containing toxic PFAS, despite recommendations since 2020 to collect and dispose of it.
- PFAS in the foam, linked to cancer and other diseases, persists in the environment and has contaminated water sources through accidental spills and improper disposal.
- Fire departments face logistical and financial challenges transitioning to safer alternatives, with little state support to address this issue.
Key quote:
“It freaks me out so bad that the firefighters of Maine had no clue. Honestly, I’m scared for a lot of my generation.”
— Jim Graves, director of training at the Maine Fire Service Institute
Why this matters:
PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” pose long-term risks to public health, especially for firefighters exposed to the foam and communities near spill sites. Without proper disposal plans, these chemicals can contaminate water supplies and ecosystems, impacting future generations.
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