Navy seeks to test wells in Cumberland County for ‘forever chemicals'
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) — The Navy depot in Hampden Township has long used firefighting foam, which contains so called forever chemicals.
Now, they will host an open house Monday, June 16, where guests can learn how to test private wells for the chemical.
In 2019, the Navy asked homeowners within a mile of its base to test their wells out of concern the foam may have spread beyond its property.
Officially known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, PFAS chemicals break down very slowly over time. They often appear in the blood of people and animals because of its wide use, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Studies show the presence of the chemical is linked to harmful effects in humans and animals, the agency said.
What are 'forever chemicals' and should we be concerned about them?
Those who attend the open house will have the opportunity to check if they are within the Navy's sampling area, speak with experts and learn more about ongoing efforts to investigate the chemical.
The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the West Shore Elks #2257 located at 108 N. Saint Johns Church Road in Camp Hill.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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