Risks of PFAS in Michigan Firefighters

Firefighters play an essential role in protecting our communities. As communities face increasing budget pressures and challenges associated with changing environmental conditions, the demands placed on fire departments continue to grow. While firefighting has always involved inherent risks, one area receiving increased attention is exposure to chemicals PFAS used in firefighting operations.

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The study below examines PFAS exposure among Michigan firefighters and found that firefighters generally have higher levels of certain PFAS compounds in their systems than the general population. Any opportunity to reduce unnecessary exposure is worth considering. The research suggests that policies limiting the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams may be having a positive impact on reducing exposure levels.

Water should be used on fires whenever it is an effective option, although there are situations where firefighting foam remains the most appropriate and effective tool for controlling specific types of fires. Studies like this help inform decisions about how and when different suppression agents are used while balancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness.

I encourage you to review the study and consider its findings.

I would also like to recognize a dedicated fire department in Michigan's Upper Peninsula that works tirelessly to serve its community. At a time when many departments across the country struggle with recruitment, this department continues to train and mentor a strong group of young volunteers. A dozen or more young recruits. Maintaining that level of preparedness and preparing them requires significant investments in training, equipment, and ongoing education.

For businesses and individuals looking for meaningful ways to support their communities, contributing to local fire departments can have a direct and lasting impact. Many donations may qualify as tax-deductible contributions, depending on your circumstances. Supporting local emergency services is an excellent example of corporate and community responsibility, and every contribution helps ensure firefighters have the training and equipment they need to protect lives and property.

If you would like more information about supporting local firefighting efforts, feel free to reach out, send a message to the right or send me an email. muradabel@gmail.com. I will point you in the right direction.

PFAS Exposure Among Michigan Firefighters: Key Findings from the PFOMS Surveillance Project (2019–2024)

• The PFAS in Firefighters of Michigan Surveillance (PFOMS) Project examined PFAS exposure among Michigan firefighters to better understand occupational exposure risks and inform prevention strategies.
• Data were collected between April 2021 and September 2023 from 1,023 firefighters representing 64 fire departments across Michigan.
• The study measured 39 PFAS compounds in blood samples and also tested drinking water from selected fire stations.
• PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFHpS, and PFDA were detected in nearly all participating firefighters, indicating widespread PFAS exposure.
• Some PFAS compounds, including PFHpS, PFDA, PFNA, PFUnA, PFBS, PFDoA, and MeFOSAA, were detected more frequently in Michigan firefighters than in the general U.S. population.
• Average blood concentrations for most PFAS were lower than those reported in recent national NHANES data, although PFOS and branched PFOS concentrations were somewhat higher among Michigan firefighters.
• Airport firefighters generally had higher PFAS concentrations than non-airport firefighters, suggesting differences in occupational exposure patterns.
• Urban firefighters tended to have higher concentrations of several PFAS compounds compared with non-urban firefighters.
• Drinking water at fire stations was not identified as a major source of PFAS exposure; PFAS detections were uncommon and usually below health comparison values.
• The report suggests that Michigan policies limiting PFAS-containing firefighting foam use may have contributed to reduced occupational exposure, although PFAS exposure remains present through multiple pathways such as gear, dust, and historical contamination.

Manani, P., Carrick, J., Hueter, C., Gray, J., Wasilevich, E., Geiger, M., & Groetsch, K. (2026). The PFAS in Firefighters of Michigan (PFOMS) Project: Biomonitoring of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Michigan firefighters (Report). Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Environmental Health Bureau. Link