Toxic Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are a class of chemicals added to furniture, electronics, and building materials intended to help prevent fires. Despite the claims of the chemical industry, many of them are unnecessary, don’t work well, and are toxic. 

We are exposed to toxic flame retardants through inhalation of dust particles containing these chemicals, ingestion of contaminated food and water, and direct contact with consumer products, textiles, and furniture that contain flame retardants.

Flame retardants have been linked to neurological damage, hormone disruption, and cancer. A significant concern is the bioaccumulation of certain flame retardants in humans, leading to persistent, chronic health issues as levels of these toxic substances increase within the body over time. Firefighters, who experience substantial exposure to flame retardants, are leading the charge to eliminate their use to combat associated health problems. Chemical exposure on duty makes cancer the leading cause of firefighter fatalities.