DAN News
DAN Offers Some Thoughts on Oil Spill
Last Updated: 6/21/2010 10:22:20 AM

Divers are Encouraged to Find the Truth Among the Hype

With all of the information circulating about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, it can be hard to get a handle on the bottom line. As the severity of the problem continues to grow, thoughts are naturally turning to how one can help to stop and clean up the devastation.

As divers, we feel especially invested in this issue, as it’s the ocean in which we dive that is primarily affected. There will be plenty of opportunities for each and every one of us to help affected areas rebuild, but in terms of immediate action, DAN^® reminds you that safety remains paramount.

If you are planning travel to or around areas affected by the disaster, call ahead to find out exactly how that area is being affected. The media is painting a blanket picture of catastrophe, and while no aspect of this problem should be trivialized, there are areas the oil has not reached; as a result, dive operations are still conducting business and running charters. The Diving Equipment and Manufacturing Association (DEMA) even launched a website earlier this week to help divers stay informed.

If you are a diver whose focus is solely on response options, do NOT attempt to assist in the cleanup without specific guidance from the responsible agencies: United States Coast Guard (USCG), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or other appointed officials. Please refer to the local command structures of these agencies and any state or local agencies that are involved for specific protocols and safe methodologies. Strongly consider other areas of support that pose less risk than being immersed in contaminated conditions.

If you are given the green light to assist in the response effort:

1. Do not dive in or near contaminated areas; diving should be done only by professionals with the appropriate training, skills and equipment for diving in contaminated water. Exposure to contaminants (the oil and the surfactants being used to contain and eradicate the spill, for example) can be life threatening.
2. If you inadvertently come into contact with the contaminants, rinse off immediately. If available, use a household detergent such as dish soap and warm water. Should any symptoms develop, especially skin manifestations or respiratory issues, seek immediate medical attention for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
3. Educate yourself on the environment in which you’ll be working. The NOAA Diving Manual suggests several resources, including:

   NOAA Hazardous Materials and Assessment Division
   7600 Sand Point Way, NE
   Seattle, WA 98115
   (206) 526-6943

   U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
   National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory
   1 Sabine Island
   Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
   (850) 934-9395