Can PFAS from a fire-fighting foam spill contaminate your tap water?
Avoid
What's actually in it
AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) is fire-fighting foam used at airports, military bases, and fire training facilities. It contains high concentrations of PFAS. When foam spills or enters drainage systems, PFAS can reach drinking water treatment plants and end up in your tap water. Even a single spill can contaminate water for an entire community.
What the research says
A 2026 study in ACS ES T Water documented what happened to tap water PFAS levels after a fire-fighting foam accidentally entered the drinking water system in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. The researchers found PFAS levels in tap water spiked dramatically after the incident, far exceeding EPA advisory levels.
Multiple types of PFAS were detected, including both legacy compounds and newer replacements. Standard water treatment didn't remove them. Residents were drinking contaminated water until the problem was identified.
If you live near a military base, airport, or fire training facility, test your water for PFAS. Install a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter rated to remove PFAS. Follow local water advisories after any reported chemical spills.
The research at a glance
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