Here are basic procedures to
follow if you encounter marine pollution.
You must protect yourself, your facility, your crew, the public and the
environment.
Recognize:
 |
| Some of the many sources of marine pollution |
Sheen, emulsion, powders, unusual
solids
Vapors, smoke, venting
Cylinders, drums, unusual
containers
Sewage, garbage, medical waste
Dead fish or other animals
Some of the many sources of marine
pollution.
Protect yourself and others:
Stay upwind of the area
Stay clear of contaminated
sources and zones
Avoid low-lying and closed-in
areas that may collect the contaminant
Do not touch, sample, or handle
the material
Avoid inhaling fumes, smoke or
vapors
Keep bystanders, unauthorized
individuals and other vessels away from the area
Do not rush in to rescue
an unconscious person
Assess the situation from a distance, with binoculars if
possible. Try to determine:
Location of the contaminant
Source or cause, if evident
Vessel name, if one is involved
Size and shape of container
Markings, colors, labels on
containers
Visible impact on wildlife, people, vegetation
Type of area likely to be affected by pollution, e.g.,
wetland, recreational, populated, navigation channel
Natural concentration or collection points
Weather and sea conditions
Danger of fire
Notify the Coast Guard:
Contact the nearest Coast Guard facility by radio or telephone or call
the National Response Center pollution report hotline at:
1-800-424-8802
