Prevention and Response
This site has been created as a training and response resource for state and local emergency responders to use before and during a coastal oil spill event. As a training tool it provides valuable information on the oil spill response equipment and Geographic Response Plans (GRPs) provided by MassDEP to assist in planning and preparedness for spill events. Much of the information on this web site is also available on a CD that can be obtained from MassDEP.
MassDEP is committed to improving state and local preparedness and response to marine oil spills by providing coastal communities with oil spill equipment and training. To accomplish this goal MassDEP has begun providing each community with a 20’ oil spill response trailer that contains 1000’ of containment boom and absorbent materials. This web site has information on what equipment is contained in each spill trailer, where to find it, how to effectively use and maintain it and what additional resources are available in neighboring communities.
Oil spill first responder training is an important component of maintaining a state of readiness and in mounting an effective response. Therefore, MassDEP has developed and is conducting “hands on” oil spill first responder training classes for coastal communities in Massachusetts. These first responders will generally be personnel from the various municipalities, and may include staff from Fire Departments, Harbor Masters and Shellfish Wardens. This training focuses on developing the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively and safely deploy oil spill containment boom during the early stages of an oil spill response. It is also intended to introduce the concept of GRPs to the first responder community. This web site can be used by responders who have not attended the “hands on” class or as a refresher for those who have.
Various marine oil spill response resources and web site links can be found or accessed through this web site.