Summer Time To Replace Old Oil Tanks

* Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment [to Oct 2003]
While oil may be the last thing on homeowners' minds this time of year, Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment Kevin J. MacAdam said now is the time Islanders should look at replacing aging oil tanks.

There were 372 oil spills in Prince Edward Island in 1999, with 208 of those from home heat tanks.

"In many cases, the problem is the oil tank is simply too old. Rust has eaten through the shell of the tank and the homeowner is left with a costly clean-up," said Minister MacAdam.

Household oil spill clean-ups can result in bills totalling more than $150,000. However, the potential environmental costs are far greater than the financial price tag, the minister added. Just one litre of oil can contaminate one million litres of drinking water.

The Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment recommends home heat tanks be replaced every 15 to 25 years, depending on tank design and steel thickness.

"Tanks that are more than 25 years old are accidents waiting to happen," said Minister MacAdam. "Even if your tank looks as good as new on the outside, because tanks corrode from the inside out, it may be ready to spring a leak at any time."

The Minister said summer is the ideal time to replace aging oil tanks. Demand for oil is at a minimum so home heating contractors are readily available to do the work.

For homeowners who find their tank is indeed in need of replacing, Minister MacAdam said there is one key factor to keep in mind: 50 per cent of household oil spills in Prince Edward Island are a direct result of improper installation.

"Replacing an old tank is only half the solution. The risk to the environment remains high if the tank is not properly installed by a certified contractor in the home heating business," the Minister said.

Last year, the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment launched a comprehensive public education program to reduce oil spills linked to poorly-installed home heat tanks and aging tanks.

As part of that program, a home heat tank safety display will be at fairs and festivals throughout the province this summer. As well, Islanders are advised to watch their mailbox in mid-July for an information flyer with tips on proper home heat tank installation.

For further information, contact the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment at (902) 368-5000 or visit the department website at www.gov.pe.ca/fae.

Media Contact: Greg Wilson