PFAS Contaminated a City's Tap Water After a Foam Spill
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/6/2026
Firefighting foam accidentally got into the drinking water system of McKeesport, Pennsylvania. The tap water was contaminated with PFAS.
What Happened
A 2026 study documented PFAS levels in tap water after fire-fighting foam (AFFF) was accidentally released into the drinking water system. AFFF contains high concentrations of PFAS. Once in the water supply, these forever chemicals don't break down.
The study measured PFAS levels in tap water samples and found contamination from the foam release. Residents were exposed through drinking, cooking, and bathing.
What You Can Do
Use a water filter rated for PFAS (reverse osmosis or high-quality activated carbon). Know your water source. Check if your municipality tests for PFAS. Don't assume tap water is clean.
Check out our non-toxic kitchen alternatives for water filtration.
Also see glass food containers for safer alternatives.