A Firefighter's Fight Against Hidden Dangers

Patrick Butler, a former fire chief from Michigan, has spent nearly 35 years fighting fires. But his toughest battle came after retirement when he was diagnosed with bladder cancer, which he believes was caused by the firefighting foam he used for years. This foam contains PFAS, chemicals that don't break down easily and can cause serious health issues.

A Mission to Protect Firefighters and the Environment

Butler didn't let this setback stop him. He discovered a plant-based, PFAS-free firefighting foam and is now on a mission to get fire departments to switch to this safer option. PFAS are found in many products, but they're especially harmful in firefighting foam. They can cause cancer, liver damage, and other serious health problems. Butler wants to protect firefighters and the environment from these dangerous chemicals.

Soy Foam: A Safer Alternative

The new foam, called Soy Foam, is made from soybeans and is just as effective as traditional foam. It can put out different types of fires and doesn't require any new equipment. Butler started his own company to distribute this foam and has been traveling around to promote it. He's already sold quite a bit to fire departments in rural areas.

Conservation Groups Take Notice

Conservation groups are also interested in this foam. The Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy plans to test it on controlled burns. This foam could make their work easier and safer, as it reduces the need for water and doesn't add harmful chemicals to the environment.

A Passion for Safety

Butler's passion for safety doesn't stop at firefighting. He's also been training firefighters and attending conferences to share his knowledge. He wants to make sure that no more firefighters have to deal with the health issues he's faced.