Firefighters are well aware that they are exposed to more PFAS than most any other profession. For decades, it was used in AFFF foams, and their turnout gear is riddled with the stuff. These sources of exposure are well understood, and the IAFF offers key advice on avoiding PFAS exposure on the job. Here, we explore 5 other changes you can make as a firefighter to reduce your exposure at home and in the firehouse.
1. Fit high efficiency water filters
Water supplies are one of the most common sources of PFAS exposure. Almost 100M Americans are believed to rely on water sources that are heavily contaminated with PFAS. Equally as concerning, many bottled water brands are using contaminated water as well. If you are worried about PFAS in your water, you can use a filter to reduce it. But make sure you choose a filter that is rated for PFAS. To learn more about using filters to remove PFAS from your water, check out this EWG guide.
2. Avoid non-stick cookware
Non-stick cookware may have come a long way since the early days. But most pans claiming to be non-stick are still reliant on PFAS. Even fancy brands like Hexclad use PFAS-based non-stick coatings. Every time you cook with the pan, some of the PFAS makes its way into your food. Especially if there’s any damage to the non-stick surface. And this gets even worse when you overheat the pan–that can cause PFAS to vaporize, and inhaling it could trigger “teflon flu”. If you have non-stick pans at home or in the firehouse, consider replacing them with a safer alternative. Proper ceramic pans are one good option. Traditional cast iron or enamel pans are another popular choice.
3. Reduce take out food
We all know that our favorite take out food is pretty unhealthy. But here’s some food for thought: did you know that it may also be exposing you to PFAS? Almost all take out containers are coated with a microscopic layer of PFAS. This is used to make the surface grease proof, non-stick, and water resistant. In turn, this makes sure your food doesn’t stick to the packaging and that the packaging doesn’t become saturated in oil and grease. The easiest way to avoid this is to reduce how often you buy take out. Alternatively, some independent restaurants may offer you reusable containers which you buy once and then return to be used again. Not all these are safe though. They could actually be exposing you to other risks like BPA and phthalates!
4. Use re-usable containers for hot drinks
Even the healthiest of us occasionally buys a coffee, hot chocolate, or ice tea to enjoy on the go. But as with take out food, these could be exposing you to PFAS. Yep, just like fast food containers, your disposable cup is probably lined with a thin layer of PFAS to make it waterproof. After all, cardboard isn’t renowned for its waterproof qualities, and you don’t want your cup dissolving before finishing your pumpkin spice latte! Fortunately, more and more coffee shops are offering reusable alternatives, and many will even allow you to bring your own reusable mug or cup. Maybe time to invest in that Stanley travel mug you always dreamed of. But beware, you might want to read up about the lead solder Stanley reportedly uses!
5. Check furnishings at home and in the firehouse
One of the more surprising places to find PFAS is home furnishings. For decades, carpet manufacturers have used PFAS in their manufacturing processes and to provide stain-resistant finishes. More recently, soft furnishings have also started to be routinely treated with stain-resistant coatings. And yes, you guessed it, these coatings are basically pure PFAS! You might want to check whether your own furniture or carpets have been treated. And also check the living quarters at the fire house.
Getting tested
If you are concerned about PFAS exposure, you should take at-home PFAS tests every few months. This will let you know how your exposure evolves over time. It will also allow you to track the impact of any lifestyle changes you make. We work with our parent company, Relentless Health, to offer discounted PFAS blood tests for firefighters. Click here to order your PFAS test today.