New Guide Highlights Home Oil Tank Safety

Environment Minister Michel Samson today released an information bulletin designed to boost awareness of oil tank safety.

A Homeowner's Guide to Oil Tank Safety provides general advice to consumers on the installation and maintenance of home oil tank systems. It also outlines the warning signs that might alert homeowners to an oil leak.

"Home oil tanks are a common source of petroleum leaks into the environment," said Mr. Samson. "The result is contaminated soil and water, not to mention the often significant expense to clean-up such a spill. If people know how to properly manage these systems, the risks are diminished."

The information bulletin was produced by the department's pollution prevention section. The group promotes a proactive approach to pollution control by avoiding or minimizing the creation of pollutants and wastes at the source. This reduces the risk to human health and the environment.

"This approach goes beyond traditional waste management and treatment by challenging us to rethink how we can use materials and energy to stop problems before they start," said Mr. Samson.

A Homeowner's Guide to Oil Tank Safety will be distributed to consumers by companies providing home oil delivery. The guides are also available at any Department of the Environment office.