The Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment is urging Island homeowners to clean the snow and ice from around their oil tanks to prevent a costly oil spill.
The Department recently issued an advisory to homeowners after responding to two oil spills in the wake of the major snow storm earlier this month. The latest caution comes after staff received reports of four more oil spills in the span of two days last week.
"What is happening now is the milder temperature is changing the composition of the snow, making it heavier and heavier. Anyone who has been out shoveling lately can attest to that," said Minister Gillan. "This snow, combined with ice around the fuel lines, is causing the lines to break, resulting in fuel spills."
In many cases, these oil spills are not covered by insurance, so homeowners are left with a costly clean-up bill - sometimes thousands of dollars.
"For their own protection, and for the protection of our environment, we are asking Islanders to please take some time and carefully clear the ice and snow from around their tanks and fuel lines," said Minister Gillan.
At the same time, the minister said homeowners should ensure there is not snow or icicles on the roof above the oil tank that could pose a danger.
Weather protection devices are available to protect the filter and product line of the oil tank from being broken off or damaged by the natural elements. They can be purchased for $30 to $40, or alternatively, a sturdy home-constructed unit can do the job.
For further tips on protecting against an oil spill, Island homeowners can contact the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment at (902) 368-5057.