$56K Grant Helps EHFD In Environmental Stewardship, Firefighter Safety

EAST HAVEN, CT —East Haven Fire Department Chief Matt Marcarelli and Mayor Joseph Carfora recently announced a "significant milestone in environmental stewardship and firefighter safety."

The fire department was awarded a $56,000 grant to remove PFAS-laden firefighting foam from six firetrucks in its fleet. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commission on Fire Prevention and Control to address environmental concerns and enhance the safety of firefighting operations statewide.

In light of recent environmental concerns surrounding PFAS, the East Haven Fire Department remains vigilant in addressing potential risks associated with these substances. Concerns have been raised regarding PFAS contamination at the Tweed New Haven Airport, particularly in the soil associated with the terminal expansion by Avports, town officials said: "While the fire department focuses on mitigating PFAS exposure within its operations, it stands ready to collaborate with relevant authorities to address broader environmental challenges affecting our community."

"As stewards of both public safety and environmental health, it is incumbent upon us to take proactive measures to mitigate potential risks associated with firefighting foam containing PFAS," Marcarelli said. "These substances pose significant environmental and health hazards, and by removing them from our fire apparatus, we are taking a crucial step towards safeguarding our community and our firefighters."

According to the EPA, the "widely used, long-lasting chemicals, the components of which break down very slowly over time," are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world and are present at low levels in a variety of food products and in the environment. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.

"The Town of East Haven is committed to promoting sustainability and protecting the well-being of our residents and first responders. Through strategic partnerships and access to state grants like this one, we can address environmental challenges while upholding our commitment to public safety," Carfora said. "The removal of PFAS-laden firefighting foam from our fleet exemplifies our dedication to responsible governance and community welfare."

The grant, administered by the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commission on Fire Prevention and Control, allocates $3 million in FY 2024 to support municipalities and fire districts in the removal of Class B firefighting foam containing PFAS. The grant covers various expenses associated with the removal process, including draining and disposal of foam, triple rinsing of foam tanks and systems, and proper disposal of resultant waste materials.

Getting the PFAS out

To execute the removal project, East Haven has engaged New Haven -based Laydon Industries, a state-designated cleanup contractor.

"With their expertise and adherence to environmental regulations established by the DEEP and the CFPC, Laydon Industries will ensure the safe and efficient removal of PFAS-laden firefighting foam from the fire department's fire apparatus, town officials said.