New Jersey works to destroy firefighting foam laced with cancer-linked PFAS: “It was like sitting on a bomb”
New Jersey Works to Destroy Cancer-Linked Firefighting Foam
New Jersey works to destroy firefighting – Emergency responders in Burlington County are taking decisive action against a hazardous material that has been stored in fire stations for decades. New Jersey works to destroy thousands of gallons of aqueous film-forming foam, commonly known as AFFF, which contains PFAS chemicals linked to serious health conditions. The initiative represents a major shift in how local fire departments handle their equipment and supplies.
For Jacobstown Volunteer Fire Chief Robert Gancarz, the situation felt urgent. He described the stored foam as something he was “sitting on a bomb,” uncertain about the proper disposal methods. Since the mid-1980s, his station has relied on this firefighting agent, but recent blood tests revealed higher-than-average PFAS levels in his system. The discovery prompted immediate action to remove all 580 gallons from the facility.
A Family’s Health Concerns
The health implications extend beyond just the current generation of firefighters. Robert’s father, 76-year-old “Boots” Gancarz, received a colon cancer diagnosis in 2024. He recalled how the foam was present in everything, stating, “It was in the gear and everything.” The older Gancarz remains optimistic about his recovery, telling locals, “I’m going to beat this.” He added with characteristic humor, “They ain’t shoveling dirt in my face yet.”
Robert Gancarz has expressed deep concern about the tools he uses daily. He noted, “The very tools I am using can cause health problems,” and emphasized the severity by saying, “They can kill you.” His questions about disposal methods reflect the broader challenge facing fire departments across the state. New Jersey works to destroy these contaminated supplies through a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies and facilities.
The Destruction Process
The contaminated foam is being transported to Revive Environmental in Ohio for proper treatment. Rick Gillespie, the company’s CEO, explained the technical approach: “We process it directly through our super critical water reactors.” This method ensures that the harmful PFAS compounds are broken down effectively. According to Gillespie, “And what comes out of those reactors is clean water.” The state has already collected more than 150,000 gallons of the problematic foam for disposal.
Looking toward the future, fire departments are transitioning to alternative solutions. The new generation of firefighting foam is PFAS-free and manufactured using soybeans. Robert Gancarz acknowledged the trade-offs involved, noting, “We have to use a little bit more of this product, but it can still put the fire out.” This transition marks a significant step forward in protecting both firefighters and communities from long-term health risks associated with “forever chemicals.”