Thursday’s Escambia Oil Spill Updated Information

May 13, 2010

Here is the latest Deepwater Horizon oil spill information specific to Escambia County for Thursday, May 13:

The oil spill is projected to be 100 miles southwest of Pensacola on Friday due to favorable winds and currents.
No oil is expected on Escambia County shores within the next 72 hours.
Tar balls have been reported in Dauphin Island, Alabama though none have washed ashore in Escambia County, Florida. Tar balls are fragments or lumps of oil weathered to a semi-sold or solid consistency, feel sticky, and are difficult to remove from contaminated surfaces. If you observe any evidence of oil on Florida’s coastline, report the incident to 1-866-448-5816.

British Petroleum (BP)

The second training class for Vessels of Opportunity was held Tuesday for licensed charter boat captains. To pick up or deliver completed packets, visit BP’s Community Outreach office at 435 East Government Street. For information, call 281-366-5511.
A local BP community outreach and claims office has been established for citizens at 435 East Government Street. The local phone number is (850) 858-0817.The office is open Monday through Friday – 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
BP Vessels of Opportunity – see the master vessel charter agreement and vessel requirements checklist online www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
BP claims categories
Approximately 175,950 feet of boom has been placed out of the Pensacola and Panama City staging areas in support of Unified Command.
BP officials request residents be wary of scam artists posing as BP contractors. Do not sign any documents in return from money from BP or anyone else until you know the extent of your loss. BP officials carry proper identification badges or business cards.
BP does not use contractors to contact or solicit volunteers for cleanup. All training offered by BP is free. There are no fees for classes or registration.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research who is contracted by BP to provide assistance to oiled wildlife. All rehabilitation efforts must be coordinated through the service and Tri-State. Specific safety and other requirements must be met before anyone will be allowed on-site for any participation. If you already have wildlife training, call BP at 1-866-557-1401.

Federal (NOAA)

NOAA modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17. See details.

State of Florida (DEP, FWC)

Governor Charlie Crist has issued an executive order creation an Economic Recovery Task Force to facilitate efforts by Florida businesses and industries in recovering from the loss of business and revenues due to the Deepwater Horizon incident.
A Legal Advisory Council has been established to assess the impact the potential disaster could have on the state.
DEP Guidelines for Protecting Shoreline from Oil Spill Impacts
Homeowners may be able to help prevent oil from reaching private property or damaging sensitive vegetation by utilizing sorbent booms.
Booming and alternative absorption measures should be coordinated through Escambia County as incorrect boom placement in navigable waterways can create a serious hazard.
Coordination with state and local entities is important to ensure that booming or alternative measures being used do not impede navigation and are not more harmful to the natural environment in the long-run.
If a boom is placed by a private citizen, that individual assumes responsibility for the boom, including the chance it could dislodge into the water or be harmful to wildlife.
Booms placed by private citizens that become impacted by oil are the responsibility of that individual and require special authorization for removal and proper disposal.
Do not place hay bales, sandbags or other unapproved devices along the shoreline, as the overall debris from disposal of such methods would increase and could cause serious long-term damage.
Do not attempt to clean impacted beaches or attempt to rescue oiled wildlife. Touching oil is a health risk and disposing of it improperly could cause additional environmental damage.
Authorized protective measures should be conducted in a manner that provides protection to, and does not disturb, native vegetation, species and their habitat.
Taking or capturing any species, nests or eggs listed as an endangered species is not permitted.
For more information on types of protective measures, contact BP’s community information line, 1-866-448-5816.
The Florida Small Business Development Center Network is part of the state’s EOC Emergency Support Function as a responder for assistance in business recovery. The Mobile Area Commands are fully self-contained and staffed by SBDC Certified Business Analysts experienced in assisting businesses impacted by disasters, including assistance with federal and state disaster loan programs. MACs have been deployed in Escambia County. SBDC staff are meeting with area business leaders and available to provide technical assistance to local businesses. For more information, please visit www.floridasbdc.org/Special Programs/bcrm.asp
The seafood off Florida’s coast in state waters are safe. There are no health alerts at this time.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily suspended the restriction on use of purse seines landward of the COLRGEGS demarcation line in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number, 800-440-0858. Additional guidance to help small businesses survive a disaster can be found at www.MyFloridaCFO.com or by calling 850-413-3089 or toll-free 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).
The state emergency operations center remains at a level 2 activation.

Escambia County Board of County Commissioners and Staff

CANCELED – The special Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 has been canceled.
CANCELED- The Committee of the Whole scheduled for 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 has been rescheduled to Thursday, May 27 at 9 a.m.
On inland waters (bays, bayous, estuaries, rivers), private property owners may install oil absorbent material, booms or fences on private property above the mean high waterline (MHWL) only. No material may be installed or sprayed below the MHWL.
On gulf-front property, the use of silt fences, obstructions, hay bales, peat, surfactants or other material is not approved. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is the permitting agency for beaches and coastal systems. No obstructions to sea turtle nesting behavior is allowed.
If citizens see anything unusual on the beaches they feel needs to be reported:
Contact the Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce at 850-492-4660 on Perdido Key
Report to the lifeguards on duty on Pensacola Beach
Deflective boom – large floating barriers that help contain floating oil – has been deployed around sensitive shorelines.
Boom has been deployed in all locations of the Local Action Plan and Addendum One. Staff continues to evaluate areas and is monitoring all deployed boom.
To keep waterways open as long as possible, boom will be “wet staged” at some locations. When floating petroleum becomes an imminent threat, boom will be fully deployed. “Fully deployed boom” is described as boom anchored into a functional configuration.
Environmental staff completed collecting sediment, water and oyster tissue samples and have sent them to a lab for analysis. Staff also completed pre-assessments on air quality.
Escambia County is evaluating several operational options from contractors for coastal protection and recovery. The county is considering every viable proposal, coordinating with Unified Command and will share information as it is approved.
A PowerPoint of oil spill response strategies is posted at www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Pteropods, also known as the sea butterfly, have been reported washing ashore on gulf beaches. Pteropods are small, basically clear and sharply pointed larval snails. Although they are fairly sharp, they do not pose a threat to people. They are naturally occurring and not washing ashore due to anything oil-related.
Residents and business owners with water access on their property should have pre-assessments prepared (photos, video, etc. documenting the current condition of the property).
The brown foam seen on the beaches recently is not associated with the oil spill. This is a common natural occurrence, especially in the spring, when fish are spawning and there are hard winds, rain, and wave action.
The EOC remains at level 2 activation. This is a minimal activation with only specifically involved agencies. Meetings of all essential local emergency support agencies are held daily.

Local Beaches

Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key remain open. The water is clear and air quality is good.
SRIA lifeguards continue patrolling beaches for oil from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In the event beaches are impacted by the oil spill, it may be necessary to issue health advisories to protect health and safety.
The Florida Department of Health will issue advisories as they become necessary for the area of affected water and shoreline.
Beaches above the high tide line should remain open for sunbathing, walking, shopping and restaurants.
The exact area for the advisories will be determined at the time oil is reported.

City of Pensacola

The City of Pensacola continues to coordinate with Escambia County officials.

Training Opportunities

PEC Premier, a BP contractor, will begin free six-hour para-professional training classes in Pensacola on May 17. This is not volunteer training. This course is not a guarantee of employment, but provides credentials needed to be hired for spill cleanup work by BP contractors.
The county has offered free volunteer orientation training for more than 900 citizens. If you completed the county’s training, your contact information has forwarded to the appropriate volunteer organizations. As the need for volunteers arises, you will be contacted.
If you would like to be considered for future volunteer opportunities, contact the BP volunteer hotline at 1-866-448-5816.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has determined volunteers cannot be used in any situation where they may come in contact with oiled shorelines or oiled wildlife.

Safety Information

If you see a tar ball on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. Report it to 1-866-448-5816.

Wildlife

Do not attempt to rescue oiled or injured birds or wildlife. Doing so can cause additional injuries.
If oiled, injured or dead wildlife are found, call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401. Please provide location of where the wildlife was sighted.
Remember that May is the hatching season for many birds and reptiles.

Boats

Boats should keep a safe distance from the booms. Do not drive boats over booms.
Boat owners are urged to dry-dock boats.
Do not drive your boat through slicks or sheens.

Beaches and Waterways

Citizens should take precautions around waterways to avoid contact with oil substances.
Officials are closely monitoring potential public health and environmental concerns.

Personal Safety (if areas are affected by oil)

Avoid areas where oil can be seen or smelled. If you see or smell oil, leave immediately.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water and sediments.
Do not swim or ski in areas affected by the oil spill, and if you travel through the area by boat, take precautions when hoisting the boat anchor. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not fish in the oil spill-affected waters.
Do not harvest and eat dead fish, fish with oily residue or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions should avoid the area.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Those near Florida’s Gulf Coast may detect an odor because of the oil spill. Some people are more sensitive to these odors and may experience nasal irritation and feelings of nausea. In combination with seasonal allergies, such as sensitivity to pollen or pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, some people may experience more severe symptoms.
Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness should contact their health care provider if feeling symptomatic.
Report oiled shorelines to 1-866-448-5816.

Business Information

Florida emergency management and economic development staff are gathering information from businesses impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Please complete their survey and help shape Florida’s response to this event. The survey will be updated periodically, so please check back, as your specific situation and information may change with time.
BP has established a claim system and toll free number, 1-800-440-0858. This system will allow people to begin the process to recover lost income or recoup damage-related expenses.
If you are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, call the Coast Guard at 1-800-280-7118.
More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found at www.uscg.mil/npfc.
Take detailed records of cancelled reservations. It is important that when these cancellations occur, the canceling party is questioned whether the cause is because of the oil spill. If the answer is yes, keep a record of the person’s name and contact information, and also the revenues lost as a result of the cancellation.
Businesses, including shops, restaurants, sport fishing charters, watersports rental companies, etc. that may be negatively impacted, are asked to keep detailed profit and loss records should a claim need to be presented.
Calculate estimated losses for a six-week period and be able to provide records, sales receipts and documentation to support your claim. One good option is to compare business to a five-year average of revenues between May and June, which can offer insight as to the damages incurred.
Make a detailed list of assets, including non-structural, and include appropriate records to support the list. Example: if your hotel or restaurant is within walking distance to the beach and that beach has oil reach its shores, the business’s assets could be damaged even though there is no physical damage to the structure. It is important to record this depreciation.
To register as a consultant, contractor, vendor or submit information on alternative response technology, services products or suggestions, call BP at 281-366-5511.

Citizen Information

The Citizen Information Center line remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 850-471-6600.
Florida Oil Spill Information Line is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week, 1-888-337-3569.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Highway 97 Traffic Delays

May 12, 2010

Expect delays on Highway 97 today north of Molino and in Walnut Hill.

Paving crews are continuing to work north of Molino, reducing traffic to one lane. Traffic is also delayed and one-lane in Walnut Hill between North Highway 99 and South Highway 99 for guardrail work.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Memorial Service Tonight For Pedestrian Killed Last Week

May 12, 2010

A memorial service will be held tonight for the Cantonment man that was killed last week on Chemstrand Road.

The memorial service will be held for Billy G. Beck III at 6:30 p.m.. It will take place at the beach on the left side of the entrance of Fort Pickens, one of his favorite fishing spots, according to organizers. Pastor Gene Hudson of Pine Forest Assembly of God Church will conduct the service.

Beck was walking northbound last Thursday night on New Chemstrand Road when he was struck by at least three vehicles. Click here for a previous story, or click here for a complete obituary.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Wednesday’s Escambia Oil Spill Updated Information

May 12, 2010

Here is the latest Deepwater Horizon oil spill information specific to Escambia County for Wednesday, May 12:

According to the NOAA oil plume model, the oil spill is 90 miles southwest of Pensacola.
The oil plume will continue to push towards the northwest through the next 72 hours.
Tarballs have been reported in Dauphin Island, Alabama though none have washed ashore in Escambia County, Florida. Tarballs are fragments or lumps of oil weathered to a semi-sold or solid consistency, feel sticky, and are difficult to remove from contaminated surfaces. If you observe any evidence of oil on Florida’s coastline, leave the area and report the incident to 1-866-448-5816.

British Petroleum (BP)

A local BP community outreach and claims office has been established for citizens at 435 East Government Street. The phone number is (850) 858-0817.
The office will be opened as follows:
Monday through Friday – 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Approximately 175,950 feet of boom has been placed out of the Pensacola and Panama City staging areas in support of Unified Command.
BP Vessels of Opportunity – see the master vessel charter agreement and vessel requirements checklist online www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
BP claims categories
BP is working on the following programs:
Shoreline Assessment and Clean Up Plan
Pre Impact Debris Removal Program
BP officials request residents be wary of scam artists posing as BP contractors. Do not sign any documents in return from money from BP or anyone else until you know the extent of your loss. BP officials carry proper identification badges or business cards.
BP does not use contractors to contact or solicit volunteers for cleanup. All training offered by BP is free. There are no fees for classes or registration.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research who is contracted by BP to provide assistance to oiled wildlife. The service recognizes Tri-State’s expertise in wildlife oil spill response, and while many wildlife organizations and individuals have expressed interest in providing assistance, all rehabilitation efforts must be coordinated through the service and Tri-State. Coordination is vitally important for recovery and research efforts, and specific safety and other requirements must be met before anyone will be allowed on-site for any participation. If you already have wildlife training, call BP at 1-866-557-1401.

Federal (NOAA)

NOAA modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17. See details.

State of Florida (DEP, FWC)

On Tuesday, May 11 at 8 a.m., the Florida Oil Spill Information line was activated to provide Floridians with response information and resources about the Deepwater Horizon oil incident in the Gulf of Mexico. Live operators will assist callers with questions and direct them to the appropriate source of information on the oil spill from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.
Florida Oil Spill Information Line – 888-337-3569
DEP Guidelines for Protecting Shoreline from Oil Spill Impacts
Homeowners may be able to help prevent oil from reaching private property or damaging sensitive vegetation by utilizing sorbent booms.
Booming and alternative absorption measures should be coordinated through Escambia County as incorrect boom placement in navigable waterways can create a serious hazard.
Coordination with state and local entities is important to ensure that booming or alternative measures being used do not impede navigation and are not more harmful to the natural environment in the long-run.
If a boom is placed by a private citizen, that individual assumes responsibility for the boom, including the chance it could dislodge into the water or be harmful to wildlife.
Booms placed by private citizens that become impacted by oil are the responsibility of that individual and require special authorization for removal and proper disposal.
Do not place hay bales, sandbags or other unapproved devices along the shoreline, as the overall debris from disposal of such methods would increase and could cause serious long-term damage.
Do not attempt to clean impacted beaches or attempt to rescue oiled wildlife. Touching oil is a health risk and disposing of it improperly could cause additional environmental damage.
Authorized protective measures should be conducted in a manner that provides protection to, and does not disturb, native vegetation, species and their habitat.
Taking or capturing any species, nests or eggs listed as an endangered species is not permitted.
For more information on types of protective measures, contact BP’s community information line, 1-866-448-5816.
The Florida Small Business Development Center Network is part of the state’s EOC Emergency Support Function as a responder for assistance in business recovery. The Mobile Area Commands are fully self-contained and staffed by SBDC Certified Business Analysts experienced in assisting businesses impacted by disasters, including assistance with federal and state disaster loan programs. MACs have been deployed in Escambia County. SBDC staff are meeting with area business leaders and available to provide technical assistance to local businesses. For more information, please visit www.floridasbdc.org/Special Programs/bcrm.asp
The seafood off Florida’s coast in state waters are safe. There are no health alerts at this time.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily suspended the restriction on use of purse seines landward of the COLRGEGS demarcation line in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number, 800-440-0858. Additional guidance to help small businesses survive a disaster can be found at www.MyFloridaCFO.com or by calling 850-413-3089 or toll-free 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).
At this time, there are no indications of health risks to Floridians due to the Deepwater Horizon incident. The Department of Health and DEP are closely monitoring health and environmental impacts to Florida’s beaches and will issue an advisory if conditions become unsafe.
The training classes offered through BP are free. If you feel that you have been approached fraudulently, please call the Attorney General’s Office fraud hotline at 1-866-966-7226.
The state emergency operations center remains at a level 2 activation.

Escambia County Board of County Commissioners and Staff

There are currently no opportunities for volunteers. As they become available, they will be posted to www.VolunteerFloridaDisaster.org.
CANCELED- The special Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 has been canceled.
CANCELED- The Committee of the Whole scheduled for 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 has been rescheduled to Thursday, May 27 at 9 a.m.
On inland waters (bays, bayous, estuaries, rivers), private property owners may install oil absorbent material, booms or fences on private property above the mean high waterline (MHWL) only. No material may be installed or sprayed below the MHWL.
On gulf-front property, the use of silt fences, obstructions, hay bales, peat, surfactants or other material is not approved. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is the permitting agency for beaches and coastal systems. No obstructions to sea turtle nesting behavior is allowed.
Oil is a hazardous material. It should only be handled by professionals trained in handling hazardous material.
Avoid entering areas where oil can be seen or smelled. Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water, sediment and wildlife. Do not swim, ski or fish in areas affected by the oil spill. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. Do not eat dead fish, fish with oily residue, or fish that have a petroleum odor. Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
If citizens see anything unusual on the beaches they feel needs to be reported:
Contact the Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce at 850-492-4660 on Perdido Key
Report to the lifeguards on duty on Pensacola Beach
Deflective boom – large floating barriers that help contain floating oil – has been deployed around sensitive shorelines.
Escambia County is coordinating with the Coast Guard regarding additional potential deployment sites. See boom deployment progress report and map.
Escambia County has posted a PowerPoint presentation of Oil Spill Response Strategies at www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Boom has been deployed in all locations of the Local Action Plan and Addendum One. Staff continues to evaluate areas to determine if more boom is needed and is monitoring all deployed boom.
To keep waterways open as long as possible, boom will be “wet staged” at some locations. When floating petroleum becomes an imminent threat, boom will be fully deployed. “Fully deployed boom” is described as boom anchored into a functional configuration.
Environmental staff completed collecting sediment, water and oyster tissue samples. Samples have been sent to a lab for analysis. Environmental staff also completed pre-assessments on air quality.
Escambia County is evaluating several operational options from contractors for coastal protection and recovery. The county is considering every viable proposal, coordinating with Unified Command and will share information as it is approved.
All along gulf-front shoreline beaches are small, basically clear and somewhat “pointy” plankton. The pteropod, also known as the sea butterfly, is a larval snail that is naturally occurring. Although they are fairly sharp and may stick your fingers and hands when picked up or your foot when you step on them, they do not pose a threat to people. They are not washing ashore due to anything oil-related.
Residents and business owners with water access on their property should have pre-assessments prepared (photos, video, etc. documenting the current condition of the property).
The brown foam seen on the beaches recently is not associated with the oil spill. This is a common natural occurrence, especially in the spring, when fish are spawning and there are hard winds, rain, and wave action.
The EOC remains at level 2 activation. This is a minimal activation with only specifically involved agencies. Meetings of all essential local emergency support agencies are held daily.

Local Beaches

In the event beaches are impacted by the oil spill, it may be necessary to issue health advisories in order to protect health and safety of citizens.
The Florida Department of Health is the agency that will issue advisories when they become necessary for the area of affected water and shoreline.
Beaches above the high tide line should remain open for sunbathing, walking, shopping and restaurants.
The exact area for the advisories will have to be determined at the time oil is spotted and reported.
Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key remain open. The water is clear and air quality is good.
SRIA lifeguards continue patrolling beaches for oil from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

City of Pensacola

The City of Pensacola continues to coordinate with Escambia County officials.

Training Opportunities

Under the Vessels of Opportunity program, 98 out of 169 contracts have been activated in Florida.
Escambia County’s final OSHA approved health and safety training courses for Wednesday, May 12 is still open. Click here to register.
This is for the health and safety training. This is not training for handling oiled wildlife.
The second training class for Vessels of Opportunity will be held Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front. This training is for licensed charter boat captains only. More than 100 captains received the training on Friday. For more information, call 281-366-5511. To pick up or deliver your completed packet, go to BP’s Community Outreach office at 435 East Government Street.
BP to offer training iin conjunction with OSHA and the Coast Guard. Health, Safety and Environmental Training has been a key focus to properly prepare those interested in participating in shoreline clean up. The training is fit-for-purpose based on whether you are a volunteer, constrator or vessel owner. The Post-emergency Spilled oil Response Training Modules were prepared by Texas Engineering Extension Service with review and approval provided by BP, OSHA and US Coast Guard personnel.
The training is for those registered in the Vessel of Opportunity program or as a contractor who wants to participate in clean up. The non-contaminated beach clean up “volunteers” will receive a basic BP health, safety and environmental orientation which has been endoresed by OSHA and the Coast Guard.
To be included as a volunteer, please contact the BP volunteer hotline at 1-866-448-5816. Your contact information will be gathered and you will be contacted when opportunities arise in your area. If you are interested in assisting in shoreline oil spill clean up operations, and you live in one of the coastal states (Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama or Florida), you can request placement in a spill response course by emailing Horizonresponse@pecpremier.com. This course is not a guarantee of employment but provides credentials needed to be hired for spill cleanup work by BP contractors..
As the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill response continues to evolve, Escambia County will be transitioning its health and safety training to BP.
If you have completed the county’s four-hour training, your contact information will be forwarded to the appropriate organizations. When the need for volunteers arises, you will be contacted. Volunteer opportunities may include tasks such as distributing water to BP-contracted paraprofessionals or assisting with community outreach programs.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has determined volunteers cannot be used in any situation where they may come in contact with oiled shorelines or oiled wildlife. There are three modified modules being offered with OSHA approval to allow for more intense participation.
Level 1 (Basic Health and Safety Training): a volunteer who will never come in contact with spilled oil. This is a condensed version of the original four-hour class.
Level 2 (Contractors and Paraprofessionals): those individuals working at a staging site.
Level 3 (Wildlife Recovery and Rehabilitation): a person trained in the recovery, rehabilitation and clean-up of wildlife. This is a graded certification course. Individuals must be affiliated with an approved volunteer organization to participate in this six-hour module.
OSHA has established guidelines for any individual working in an area where they may be exposed to petroleum-contaminated materials. In accordance with these guidelines, modules one, two and three are required for anyone seeking contract employment with BP as a paraprofessional who may potentially work directly with the spill.
Beginning Thursday, May 13, BP will offer all three levels of training.
For more information on BP’s volunteer and paraprofessional training schedule, visit their training contractor’s web site: www.pecpremier.com.

Safety Messages
Wildlife

Do not attempt to rescue oiled or injured birds or wildlife. Doing so can cause additional injuries.
If oiled, injured or dead wildlife are found, call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401. Please provide location of where the wildlife was sighted.
Remember that May is the hatching season for many birds and reptiles.

Boats

Boats should keep a safe distance from the booms. Do not drive boats over booms.
Boat owners are urged to dry-dock boats.
Do not drive your boat through slicks or sheens.

Beaches and Waterways

Citizens should take precautions around waterways to avoid contact with oil substances.
Officials are closely monitoring potential public health and environmental concerns.

Personal Safety (if areas are affected by oil)

Avoid areas where oil can be seen or smelled. If you see or smell oil, leave immediately.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water and sediments.
Do not swim or ski in areas affected by the oil spill, and if you travel through the area by boat, take precautions when hoisting the boat anchor. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not fish in the oil spill-affected waters.
Do not harvest and eat dead fish, fish with oily residue or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions should avoid the area.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Those near Florida’s Gulf Coast may detect an odor because of the oil spill. Some people are more sensitive to these odors and may experience nasal irritation and feelings of nausea. In combination with seasonal allergies, such as sensitivity to pollen or pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, some people may experience more severe symptoms.
Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness should contact their health care provider if feeling symptomatic.
Report oiled shorelines to 1-866-448-5816.

Business Information

Florida emergency management and economic development staff are gathering information from businesses impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Please take a moment to complete the survey and provide crucial information that will help shape Florida’s response to this event. The survey will be updated periodically, so please check back, as your specific situation and information may change with time.
The survey can be found at Escambia Disaster Response – Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill or http://surveymonkey.com/s/37NF5BL
BP has established a claim system and toll free number, 1-800-440-0858. This system will allow people to begin the process to recover lost income or recoup damage related expenses.
If you are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, there is an additional avenue for assistance available through the Coast Guard once BP has finalized your claim. Those who have already pursued the BP claims process can call the Coast Guard at 1-800-280-7118.
More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found at www.uscg.mil/npfc.
Take detailed records of canceled reservations. It is important that when these cancellations occur, the canceling party is questioned whether the cause is because of the oil spill. If the answer is yes, keep a record of the person’s name and contact information, and also the revenues lost as a result of the cancellation.
Businesses, including shops, restaurants, sport fishing charters, watersports rental companies, etc. that may be negatively impacted, are asked to keep detailed profit and loss records should a claim need to be presented.
Calculate estimated losses for a six-week period and be able to provide records, sales receipts and documentation to support your claim. One good option is to compare business to a five-year average of revenues between May and June, which can offer insight as to the damages incurred.
Make a detailed list of assets, including non-structural, and include appropriate records to support the list. Example: if your hotel or restaurant is within walking distance to the beach and that beach has oil reach its shores, the business’s assets could be damaged even though there is no physical damage to the structure. It is important to record this depreciation.
To register as a consultant, contractor, vendor or submit information on alternative response technology, services products or suggestions, call BP at 281-366-5511.

Citizen Information

The Citizen Information Center phone remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 850-471-6600.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Congressman To Hold Telephone Town Hall Meeting On Oil Spill

May 11, 2010

Constituents can join Congressman Jeff Miller tonight for a “tele-town hall meeting” as he discusses the latest information surrounding the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The tele-town hall meeting will be held at 6:45 p.m. During the townhall, residents of Northwest Florida will hear from Miller about the most recent developments in the Gulf and be able to participate by asking questions.

To participate, dial (888) 886-6603 ext.14760 at 6:45 p.m.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Tuesday’s Escambia Oil Update

May 11, 2010

Here is the latest Deepwater Horizon oil spill information specific to Escambia County for Tuesday, May 11:

The oil spill is now 129 miles from the city of Pensacola.
Based on the latest projection from NOAA, Escambia County is not anticipating any direct oil impact in the next 48 hours
Escambia County beaches remain clear and beautiful.
Please continue to support our beach and waterfront businesses and restaurants.
Tarballs have been reported in Dauphin Island, Alabama though none have washed ashore in Escambia County, Florida. Tarballs are fragments or lumps of oil weathered to a semi-sold or solid consistency, feel sticky, and are difficult to remove from contaminated surfaces. If you observe any evidence of oil on Florida’s coastline, leave the area and report the incident to 1-866-448-5816.

British Petroleum (BP)

Currently 5,600 feet of BP’s boom is staged in Pensacola with an additional 10,000 feet of boom on order.
A local BP community outreach and claims office has been established for citizens at 435 East Government Street. A local phone number will be posted soon.
BP Vessels of Opportunity – see the master vessel charter agreement and vessel requirements checklist online www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
BP claims categories
BP is working on the following programs:
Shoreline Assessment and Clean Up Plan
Pre Impact Debris Removal Program
BP officials request residents be wary of scam artists posing as BP contractors. Do not sign any documents in return from money from BP or anyone else until you know the extent of your loss. BP officials carry proper identification badges or business cards.
BP does not use contractors to contact or solicit volunteers for cleanup. All training offered by BP is free. There are no fees for classes or registration.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research who is contracted by BP to provide assistance to oiled wildlife. The service recognizes Tri-State’s expertise in wildlife oil spill response, and while many wildlife organizations and individuals have expressed interest in providing assistance, all rehabilitation efforts must be coordinated through the service and Tri-State. Coordination is vitally important for recovery and research efforts, and specific safety and other requirements must be met before anyone will be allowed on-site for any participation. If you already have wildlife training, call BP at 1-866-557-1401.

Federal (NOAA)

NOAA modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17. See details.

State of Florida (DEP, FWC)

Weather conditions remain favorable. Wind and currents continue to keep the plume away from the Florida coast for at least the next 72 hours according to DEP.
DEP Guidelines for Protecting Shoreline from Oil Spill Impacts
Homeowners may be able to help prevent oil from reaching private property or damaging sensitive vegetation by utilizing sorbent booms.
Booming and alternative absorption measures should be coordinated through Escambia County as incorrect boom placement in navigable waterways can create a serious hazard.
Coordination with state and local entities is important to ensure that booming or alternative measures being used do not impede navigation and are not more harmful to the natural environment in the long-run.
If a boom is placed by a private citizen, that individual assumes responsibility for the boom, including the chance it could dislodge into the water or be harmful to wildlife.
Booms placed by private citizens that become impacted by oil are the responsibility of that individual and require special authorization for removal and proper disposal.
Do not place hay bales, sandbags or other unapproved devices along the shoreline, as the overall debris from disposal of such methods would increase and could cause serious long-term damage.
Do not attempt to clean impacted beaches or attempt to rescue oiled wildlife. Touching oil is a health risk and disposing of it improperly could cause additional environmental damage.
Authorized protective measures should be conducted in a manner that provides protection to, and does not disturb, native vegetation, species and their habitat.
Taking or capturing any species, nests or eggs listed as an endangered species is not permitted.
For more information on types of protective measures, contact BP’s community information line, 1-866-448-5816.
The Florida Small Business Development Center Network is part of the state’s EOC Emergency Support Function as a responder for assistance in business recovery. The Mobile Area Commands are fully self-contained and staffed by SBDC Certified Business Analysts experienced in assisting businesses impacted by disasters, including assistance with federal and state disaster loan programs. MACs have been deployed in Escambia County. SBDC staff are meeting with area business leaders and available to provide technical assistance to local businesses. For more information, please visit www.floridasbdc.org/Special Programs/bcrm.asp
The seafood off Florida’s coast in state waters are safe. There are no health alerts at this time.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily suspended the restriction on use of purse seines landward of the COLRGEGS demarcation line in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number, 800-440-0858. Additional guidance to help small businesses survive a disaster can be found at www.MyFloridaCFO.com or by calling 850-413-3089 or toll-free 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).
At this time, there are no indications of health risks to Floridians due to the Deepwater Horizon incident. The Department of Health and DEP are closely monitoring health and environmental impacts to Florida’s beaches and will issue an advisory if conditions become unsafe.
The training classes offered through BP are free. If you feel that you have been approached fraudulently, please call the Attorney General’s Office fraud hotline at 1-866-966-7226.
The state emergency operations center remains at a level 2 activation.

Escambia County Board of County Commissioners and Staff

There are currently no opportunties for volunteers. As they become available, they will be posted to www.VolunteerFloridaDisaster.org.
CANCELED- The special Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 has been canceled.
CANCELED- The Commmittee of the Whole scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 13 been rescheduled to Thurday, May 27 at 9 a.m..
On inland waters (bays, bayous, estuaries, rivers), private property owners may install oil absorbent material, booms or fences on private property above the mean high waterline (MHWL) only. No material may be installed or sprayed below the MHWL.
On gulf-front property, the use of silt fences, obstructions, hay bales, peat, surfactants or other material is not approved. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is the permitting agency for beaches and coastal systems. No obstructions to sea turtle nesting behavior is allowed.
Oil is a hazardous material. It should only be handled by professionals trained in handling hazardous material.
Avoid entering areas where oil can be seen or smelled. Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water, sediment and wildlife. Do not swim, ski or fish in areas affected by the oil spill. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. Do not eat dead fish, fish with oily residue, or fish that have a petroleum odor. Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
If citizens see anything unusual on the beaches they feel they need to report:
Contact the Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce at 850-492-4660 on Perdido Key
Report to the lifeguards on duty on Pensacola Beach
Deflective boom – large floating barriers that help contain floating oil – has been deployed around sensitive shorelines. .
Escambia County is coordinating with the Coast Guard regarding additional potential deployment sites. See boom deployment progress report and map.
Escambia County has posted a PowerPoint presentation of Oil Spill Response Strategies at www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Boom has been deployed in all locations of the Local Action Plan and Addendum One. Staff continues to evaluate areas to determine if more boom is needed and is monitoring all deployed boom.
To keep waterways open as long as possible, boom will be “wet staged” at some locations. When floating petroleum becomes an imminent threat, boom will be fully deployed. “Fully deployed boom” is described as boom anchored into a functional configuration.
Environmental staff completed collecting sediment, water and oyster tissue samples. Samples have been sent to a lab for analysis. Environmental staff also completed pre-assessments on air quality.
Escambia County is evaluating several operational options from contractors for coastal protection and recovery. The county is considering every viable proposal, coordinating with Unified Command and will share information as it is approved.
All along gulf-front shoreline beaches are small, basically clear and somewhat “pointy” plankton. The pteropod, also known as the sea butterfly, is a larval snail that is naturally occurring. Although they are fairly sharp and may stick your fingers and hands when picked up or your foot when you step on them, they do not pose a threat to people. They are not washing ashore due to anything oil-related.
Residents and business owners with water access on their property should have pre-assessments prepared (photos, video, etc. documenting the current condition of the property).
The brown foam seen on the beaches recently is not associated with the oil spill. This is a common natural occurrence, especially in the spring, when fish are spawning and there are hard winds, rain, and wave action.
The EOC remains at level 2 activation. This is a minimal activation with only specifically involved agencies. Meetings of all essential local emergency support agencies are held daily.

Local Beaches

Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key remain open. The water is clear and air quality is good.
SRIA lifeguards continue patrolling beaches for oil from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

City of Pensacola

The City of Pensacola continues to coordinate with Escambia County officials.

Training Opportunities

The second training class for Vessels of Opportunity will be held Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front. This training is for licensed charter boat captains only. More than 100 captains received the training on Friday. For more information, call 281-366-5511. To pick up or deliver your completed packet, go to BP’s Community Outreach office at 435 East Government Street.
BP to offer training in conjunction with OSHA and the Coast Guard. Health, Safety and Environmental Training has been a key focus to properly prepare those interested in participating in shoreline clean up. The training is fit-for-purpose based on whether you are a volunteer, contractor or vessel owner. The Post-Emergency Spilled Oil Response Training Modules were prepared by Texas Engineering Extension Service with review and approval provided by BP, OSHA and US Coast Guard personnel.
The training is for those registered in the Vessel of Opportunity program or as a contractor who wants to participate in clean up. The non-contaminated beach clean up “volunteers” will receive a basic BP health, safety and environmental orientation which as been endorsed by OSHA and the the Coast Guard.
To be included as a volunteer, please contact the BP volunteer hotline at 1-866-448-5816. Your contact information will be gathered and you will contacted when opportunities arise in your area. If you are interested in assisting in shoreline oil spill clean up operations, and you live in one of the coastal states (Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama or Florida), you can request placement in a spill response course by emailing Horizonresponse@pecpremier.com . This course is not a guarantee of employment but provides credentials needed to be hired for spill cleanup work by BP contractors.
As the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill response continues to evolve, Escambia County will be transitioning its health and safety training to BP.
If you have completed the county’s four-hour training, your contact information will be forwarded to the appropriate organizations. When the need for volunteers arises, you will be contacted. Volunteer opportunities may include tasks such as distributing water to BP-contracted paraprofessionals or assisting with community outreach programs.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has determined volunteers cannot be used in any situation where they may come in contact with oiled shorelines or oiled wildlife. There are three modified modules being offered with OSHA approval to allow for more intense participation.
Level 1 (Basic Health and Safety Training): a volunteer who will never come in contact with spilled oil. This is a condensed version of the original four-hour class.
Level 2 (Contractors and Paraprofessionals): those individuals working at a staging site.
Level 3 (Wildlife Recovery and Rehabilitation): a person trained in the recovery, rehabilitation and clean-up of wildlife. This is a graded certification course. Individuals must be affiliated with an approved volunteer organization to participate in this six-hour module.
OSHA has established guidelines for any individual working in an area where they may be exposed to petroleum-contaminated materials. In accordance with these guidelines, modules one, two and three are required for anyone seeking contract employment with BP as a paraprofessional who may potentially work directly with the spill.
Beginning Thursday, May 13, BP will offer all three levels of training.
For more information on BP’s volunteer and paraprofessional training schedule, visit their training contractor’s web site: www.pecpremier.com.
Escambia County’s final OSHA approved health and safety training courses for Tuesday, May 11 and Wednesday, May 12 are still open.
This is for the health and safety training. This is not training for handling oiled wildlife.

Safety Messages

Wildlife

Do not attempt to rescue oiled or injured birds or wildlife. Doing so can cause additional injuries.
If oiled, injured or dead wildlife are found, call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401. Please provide location of where the wildlife was sighted.
Remember that May is the hatching season for many birds and reptiles.

Boats

Boats should keep a safe distance from the booms. Do not drive boats over booms.
Boat owners are urged to dry-dock boats.
Do not drive your boat through slicks or sheens.

Beaches and Waterways

Citizens should take precautions around waterways to avoid contact with oil substances.
Officials are closely monitoring potential public health and environmental concerns.

Personal Safety (if areas are affected by oil)

Avoid areas where oil can be seen or smelled. If you see or smell oil, leave immediately.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water and sediments.
Do not swim or ski in areas affected by the oil spill, and if you travel through the area by boat, take precautions when hoisting the boat anchor. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not fish in the oil spill-affected waters.
Do not harvest and eat dead fish, fish with oily residue or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions should avoid the area.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Those near Florida’s Gulf Coast may detect an odor because of the oil spill. Some people are more sensitive to these odors and may experience nasal irritation and feelings of nausea. In combination with seasonal allergies, such as sensitivity to pollen or pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, some people may experience more severe symptoms.
Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness should contact their health care provider if feeling symptomatic.
Report oiled shorelines to 1-866-448-5816.

Business Information

BP has established a claim system and toll free number, 1-800-440-0858. This system will allow people to begin the process to recover lost income or recoup damage related expenses.
If you are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, there is an additional avenue for assistance available through the Coast Guard once BP has finalized your claim. Those who have already pursued the BP claims process can call the Coast Guard at 1-800-280-7118.
More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found at www.uscg.mil/npfc.
Take detailed records of canceled reservations. It is important that when these cancellations occur, the canceling party is questioned whether the cause is because of the oil spill. If the answer is yes, keep a record of the person’s name and contact information, and also the revenues lost as a result of the cancellation.
Businesses, including shops, restaurants, sport fishing charters, watersports rental companies, etc. that may be negatively impacted, are asked to keep detailed profit and loss records should a claim need to be presented.
Calculate estimated losses for a six-week period and be able to provide records, sales receipts and documentation to support your claim. One good option is to compare business to a five-year average of revenues between May and June, which can offer insight as to the damages incurred.
Make a detailed list of assets, including non-structural, and include appropriate records to support the list. Example: if your hotel or restaurant is within walking distance to the beach and that beach has oil reach its shores, the business’s assets could be damaged even though there is no physical damage to the structure. It is important to record this depreciation.
To register as a consultant, contractor, vendor or submit information on alternative response technology, services products or suggestions, call BP at 281-366-5511.

Citizen Information

The Citizen Information Center phone remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 850-471-6600.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Monday’s Escambia Oil Update

May 10, 2010

Here is the latest Deepwater Horizon oil spill information specific to Escambia County for Monday, May 10:

The oil spill remains 70 miles off the shores of Escambia County.
Escambia County beaches remain clear and beautiful.
Please continue to support our beach and waterfront businesses and restaurants.

Guidelines for Waterfront Property Owners

BP has the lead for response and clean-up activities.
On inland waters (bays, bayous, estuaries, rivers), private property owners may install oil absorbent material, booms or fences on private property above the mean high waterline (MHWL) only. No material may be installed or sprayed below the MHWL.
On gulf-front property, the use of silt fences, obstructions, hay bales, peat, surfactants or other material is not approved. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is the permitting agency for beaches and coastal systems. No obstructions to sea turtle nesting behavior is allowed.
Photograph your shoreline to document pre-impact baseline conditions, and after oil impact.
Oil is a hazardous material. It should only be handled by professionals trained in handling hazardous material.
Avoid entering areas where oil can be seen or smelled. Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water, sediment and wildlife. Do not swim, ski or fish in areas affected by the oil spill. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. Do not eat dead fish, fish with oily residue, or fish that have a petroleum odor. Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Report oiled shorelines to 866-448-5816
Report oiled wildlife to 866-557-1401
Report claims to BP at 800-440-0858

On May 7, a kerosene-like odor was detected in areas of Escambia County. While this odor was most likely associated with the oil spill, the spill remains well to the south. Escambia County officials deployed staff to check the waters, however there was no oil sheen or slick sighted near our coastlines. As winds shift to the southwest, this odor may again be detected.
For air quality reports, visit http://www.airnow.gov. For health and safety information, visit http://www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Individuals experiencing symptoms that are aggravated by the odors from the oil spill should consider: staying indoors, in air conditioning, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity. If symptoms do not improve, contact a primary care physician or other health care provider for medical advice.
If citizens see unusual on the beaches they feel they need to report:
Contact the Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce at 850-492-4660 on Perdido Key
Report to the lifeguards on duty on Pensacola Beach
Reminder: If oiled wildlife is spotted, do not attempt to make contact with the animal. Please call the Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research, 1-866-557-1401.
Deflective boom – large floating barriers that help contain floating oil – has been deployed around sensitive shorelines.
Based on the latest projection from NOAA, Escambia County is not anticipating any direct oil impact in the next 48 hours.

BP Actions

BP deployed an additional 2,900 feet of boom in Escambia County on May 8.
BP Vessels of Opportunity – see the master vessel charter agreement and vessel requirements checklist online www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.

BP is working on the following programs:

Shoreline Assessment and Clean Up Plan
Pre Impact Debris Removal Program
BP has put up a $25 million block grant for the State of Florida.
BP officials request residents be wary of scam artists posing as BP contractors. Do not sign any documents in return from money from BP or anyone else until you know the extent of your loss.
BP officials carry proper identification badges or business cards.
BP is coordinating volunteers. If you are interested in helping, call 1-866-448-5816. BP does not use contractors to contact or solicit volunteers for cleanup. Training offered by BP is free. There are no fees for classes or registration.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research who is contracted by BP to provide assistance to oiled wildlife. The service recognizes Tri-State’s expertise in wildlife oil spill response, and while many wildlife organizations and individuals have expressed interest in providing assistance, all rehabilitation efforts must be coordinated through the service and Tri-State. Coordination is vitally important for recovery and research efforts, and specific safety and other requirements must be met before anyone will be allowed on-site for any participation. If you already have wildlife training, call BP at 1-866-557-1401.

Federal Actions

NOAA modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the oil spill, and extended the fishing restriction until May 17.

State of Florida Actions

Weather conditions remain favorable. Wind and currents continue to keep the plume away from the Florida coast for at least the next 72 hours according to DEP.
The Florida Small Business Development Center Network is part of the state’s EOC Emergency Support Function as a responder for assistance in business recovery. The Mobile Area Commands are fully self-contained and staffed by SBDC Certified Business Analysts experienced in assisting businesses impacted by disasters, including assistance with federal and state disaster loan programs. MACs have been deployed in Escambia County. SBDC staff are meeting with area business leaders and available to provide technical assistance to local businesses. For more information, please visit www.floridasbdc.org/Special Programs/bcrm.asp
The state’s coastline is clear and remains open for public enjoyment.
The seafood off Florida’s coast in state waters are safe. There are no health alerts at this time.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily suspended the restriction on use of purse seines landward of the COLRGEGS demarcation line in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
For volunteer opportunities, visit www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.
Affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number, 800-440-0858. Additional guidance to help small businesses survive a disaster can be found at www.MyFloridaCFO.com or by calling 850-413-3089 or toll-free 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).
At this time, there are no indications of health risks to Floridians due to the Deepwater Horizon incident. The Department of Health and DEP are closely monitoring health and environmental impacts to Florida’s beaches and will issue an advisory if conditions become unsafe.
The training classes offered through BP are free. If you feel that you have been approached fraudulently, please call the Attorney General’s Office fraud hotline at 1-866-966-7226.
The state emergency operations center remains at a level 2 activation.

Actions by Escambia County Board of County Commissioners and Staff

Escambia County is coordinating with the Coast Guard regarding additional potential deployment sites. See boom deployment progress report and map.
Escambia County has posted a PowerPoint presentation of Oil Spill Response Strategies at www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Boom has been deployed in all locations of the Local Action Plan and Addendum One. Staff continues to evaluate areas to determine if more boom is needed and is monitoring all deployed boom.
To keep waterways open as long as possible, boom will be “wet staged” at some locations. When floating petroleum becomes an imminent threat, boom will be fully deployed. “Fully deployed boom” is described as boom anchored into a functional configuration.
Environmental staff completed collecting sediment, water and oyster tissue samples. Samples have been sent to a lab for analysis.
SRIA lifeguards continue patrolling beaches for oil from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Declaration of Local State of Emergency was extended to May 21, 2010.
A Special Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting has been scheduled for 8:30 a.m., May 13 to allow staff the opportunity, if necessary, to present time-sensitive recommendations relative to the Deep Horizon Oil Plume. The meeting will be held in the Escambia County Governmental Complex, Board Chambers, Room 100, 221 Palafox Place.
Escambia County is evaluating several operational options from contractors for coastal protection and recovery. The county is considering every viable proposal, coordinating with Unified Command and will share information as it is approved.
All along gulf-front shoreline beaches are small, basically clear and somewhat “pointy” plankton. The pteropod, also known as the sea butterfly, is a larval snail that is naturally occurring. Although they are fairly sharp and may stick your fingers and hands when picked up or your foot when you step on them, they do not pose a threat to people. They are not washing ashore due to anything oil-related.
Residents and business owners with water access on their property should have pre-assessments prepared (photos, video, etc. documenting the current condition of the property).
The brown foam seen on the beaches recently is not associated with the oil spill. This is a common natural occurrence, especially in the spring, when fish are spawning and there are hard winds, rain, and wave action.
The EOC remains at level 2 activation. This is a minimal activation with only specifically involved agencies. Meetings of all essential local emergency support agencies are held daily.
Pre-qualified contractors and consultants are coordinating with county staff on the disaster response.
Environmental staff have completed pre-assessments on air and water quality.
County officials continue working through state and federal channels to establish a process for resources and equipment.
Emergency Management officials continue to communicate with the State of Florida liaison at unified command.
County staff is continuing to coordinate with the Santa Rosa Island Authority on equipment necessary for the response effort.

Local Beaches

Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key remain open. The water is clear and air quality is good.

City of Pensacola

The City of Pensacola continues to coordinate with Escambia County officials.

Training Opportunities

As the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill response continues to evolve, Escambia County will be transitioning its health and safety training to BP.
If you have completed the county’s four-hour training, your contact information will be forwarded to the appropriate organizations. When the need for volunteers arises, you will be contacted. Volunteer opportunities may include tasks such as distributing water to BP-contracted paraprofessionals or assisting with community outreach programs.
As the national Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) as determined volunteers cannot be used in any situation where they may come in contact with oiled shorelines or oiled wildlife. There are three modified modules being offered with OSHA approval to allow for more intense participation.
Level 1 (Basic Health and Safety Training): a volunteer who will never come in contact with spilled oil. This is a condensed version of the original four-hour class.
Level 2 (Contractors and Paraprofessionals): those individuals working at a staging site.
Level 3 (Wildlife Recovery and Rehabilitation): a person trained in the recovery, rehabilitation and clean-up of wildlife. This is a graded certification course. Individuals must be affiliated with an approved volunteer organization to participate in this six-hour module.
OSHA has established guidelines for any individual working in an area where they may be exposed to petroleum-contaminated materials. In accordance with these guidelines, modules one, two and three are required for anyone seeking contract employment with BP as a paraprofessional who may potentially work directly with the spill.
Beginning Thursday, May 13, BP will offer all three levels of training.
For more information BP’s volunteer and paraprofessional training schedule, visit their training contractor’s web site: www.pecpremier.com.
Escambia County’s final OSHA approved health and safety training courses for Tuesday, May 11 and Wednesday, May 12 are still open. Click here to register.
This is for the health and safety training. This is not training for handling oiled wildlife.

Wildlife

Do not attempt to rescue oiled or injured birds or wildlife. Doing so can cause additional injuries.
If oiled, injured or dead wildlife are found, call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401, please provide location of where the wildlife was sighted.
Remember that May is the hatching season for many birds and reptiles.

Boats

Boats should keep a safe distance from the booms. Do not drive boats over booms.
Boat owners are urged to dry-dock boats.
Do not drive your boat through slicks or sheens.

Beaches and Waterways

Citizens should take precautions around waterways to avoid contact with oil substances.
Officials are closely monitoring potential public health and environmental concerns.

Personal Safety (if areas are affected by oil)

Avoid areas where oil can be seen or smelled. If you see or smell oil, leave immediately.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water and sediments.
Do not swim or ski in areas affected by the oil spill, and if you travel through the area by boat, take precautions when hoisting the boat anchor. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not fish in the oil spill-affected waters.
Do not harvest and eat dead fish, fish with oily residue or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions should avoid the area.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Those near Florida’s Gulf Coast may detect an odor because of the oil spill. Some people are more sensitive to these odors and may experience nasal irritation and feelings of nausea. In combination with seasonal allergies, such as sensitivity to pollen or pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, some people may experience more severe symptoms.
Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness should contact their health care provider if feeling symptomatic.
Report oiled shorelines to 1-866-448-5816.

Businesses Information

BP has established a claim system and toll free number, 1-800-440-0858. This system will allow people to being to process to recover lost income or recoup damage related expenses.
If you are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, there is an additional avenue for assistance available through the Coast Guard once BP has finalized your claim. Those who have already pursued the BP claims process can call the Coast Guard at 1-800-280-7118.
More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found at www.uscg.mil/npfc.
Take detailed records of canceled reservations. It is important that when these cancellations occur, the canceling party is questioned whether the cause is because of the oil spill. If the answer is yes, keep a record of the person’s name and contact information, and also the revenues lost as a result of the cancellation.
Businesses, including shops, restaurants, sport fishing charters, watersports rental companies, etc. that may be negatively impacted, are asked to keep detailed profit and loss records should a claim need to be presented.
Calculate estimated losses for a six-week period and be able to provide records, sales receipts and documentation to support your claim. One good option is to compare business to a five-year average of revenues between May and June, which can offer insight as to the damages incurred.
Make a detailed list of assets, including non-structural, and include appropriate records to support the list. Example: if your hotel or restaurant is within walking distance to the beach and that beach has oil reach its shores, the business’s assets could be damaged even though there is no physical damage to the structure. It is important to record this depreciation.
To register as a consultant, contractor, vendor or submit information on alternative response technology, services products or suggestions, call BP at 281-366-5511.
For the Vessels of Opportunities Program, call 281-366-5511.

Citizen Information

The Citizen Information Center phone remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 850-471-6600.

Contact Numbers

Volunteer hotline: 1-866-448-5816
Transocean hotline: 832-587-8554
MI Swaco hotline: 1-888-318-6765
BP Investor Relations: 381-366-3123
BP family hotline: 281-366-5578
BP third party contractor hotline: 281-366-5578

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Northview Quarterback Club Meeting Tonight

May 10, 2010

The Northview Quarterback Club will meet at 7:00 tonight in the school library to elect officers for the upcoming school year.

“It is very important that all of this past years members attend and also those that are interested in joining and dedicating their time and talents to benefit the athletes of all sports programs at Northview,” Randy Albritton, public affairs officer for the Quarterback Club, said.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Training for Pesticide Applicator License

May 10, 2010

Multi-county Core and Private Applicator Pesticide Training Programs will be held in the Jay Community Center, 5259 Booker Lane, in Jay Tuesday and Wednesday, May 11th and 12th, 2010.

For the Tuesday meeting you can earn four (4 core) CEU points for the morning program and three (3 core) CEU’s for the afternoon program. For the Wednesday program you would earn five (5 private) CEU’s. Each session will cost $10.00. Call 675-6654 for reservation or information.

For more information or if you have a question, call John Atkins, Extension Agriculture/Livestock Agent, The University of Florida/IFAS-Santa Rosa County Extension, at (850) 675-3107, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Hearing impaired individuals may call Santa Rosa County Emergency Management Service at 983-5373 (TDD).

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Latest Escambia Oil Update

May 9, 2010

Here is the latest Deepwater Horizon oil spill information specific to Escambia County:

Oil Related Information

On the afternoon of May 7, a kerosene-like odor was detected in areas of Escambia County. While this odor was most likely associated with the oil spill, the spill remains well to the south. Escambia County officials deployed staff to check the waters, however there is no oil sheen or slick sighted near our coastlines.
For air quality reports, visit http://www.airnow.gov. For health and safety information, visit http://www.escambiadisasterresponse.com.
Individuals experiencing symptoms that are aggravated by the odors from the oil spill should consider: staying indoors, in air conditioning, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity. If symptoms do not improve, contact a primary care physician or other health care provider for medical advice.
If anyone sees anything out of the ordinary on the beaches that they feel they need to report, if in Perdido Key please contact the Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce at 850-492-4660 or for Pensacola Beach please report to the Lifeguards on duty.
Reminder: If oiled wildlife is spotted do not attempt to make contact with the animal, please call the Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research 1-866-557-1401.
Deflective boom – large floating barriers that help contain floating oil – around sensitive shorelines.
We are not anticipating any oil impact over the weekend.
We are forecast for favorable weather conditions for oil response preparations.

BP Actions

BP reported that 7 claim adjusters are on site in Florida and there are currently 373 open claims.
BP has completed construction of a dome, which will be used in an attempt to contain the oil discharge. BP has also begun drilling a relief well to eliminate the discharge. The dome is roughly 125 miles offshore, southwest of Pensacola.
BP Vessel of Opportunity – master vessel charter agreement and vessel requirements checklist online www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com.
BP claims categories
BP is working on the following programs:
Shoreline Assessment and Clean Up Plan
Pre Impact Debris Removal Program
BP has put up a $25 million Block Grant for the State of Florida.
BP Officials want everyone to be aware of scam artists posing as BP contractors. Citizens are discouraged from signing any documents provided to them in return from money form BP or anyone else until they know the extent of their loss.
BP officials carry proper identification badges or business cards.
BP is handling volunteer registration. Anyone interested in helping, should use the toll free number to register, 1-866-448-5816. They do not use contractors to contact or solicit anyone to volunteer for cleanup, nor will they ever ask for any kind of advance fee from you.
Training offered by BP is free. There are no fees for classes or registration.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research (Tri-State) who is contracted by BP to provide assistance to oiled wildlife. The service recognizes Tri-State’s expertise in wildlife oil spill response, and while many wildlife organizations and individuals have expressed interest in providing their assistance, all rehabilitation efforts must be coordinated through the service and Tri-State. Coordination is vitally important for recovery and research efforts, and specific safety and other requirements must be met before anyone will be allowed on-site for any participation . If you already have wildlife training, call BP with 1-866-557-1401.

Guidelines for Waterfront Property Owners

Oil is a hazardous material. It should only be handled by professionals trained in handling hazardous material.
Avoid entering areas where oil can be seen or smelled.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water, sediment, and wildlife.
Do not swim, ski, or fish in areas affected by the oil spill.
If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not eat dead fish, fish with oily residue, or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Report oiled shorelines to 866-448-5816
Report oiled wildlife to 866-557-1401
Report claims to BP at 800-440-0858
Take photographs of your shoreline to document pre-impact baseline conditions, and after oil impact.
On inland waters (bays, bayous, estuaries, rivers), private property owners may install oil absorbent material, booms, or fences on private property above the mean high waterline (MHWL) only. No material may be installed or sprayed below the MHWL.
On Gulf-front property, the use of silt fences, obstructions, hay bales, peat, surfactants, or other material is not approved. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is the permitting agency for Beaches and Coastal Systems. No obstructions to sea turtle nesting behavior is allowed.
BP has the lead for response and clean-up activities.

Federal Actions

On May 7, NOAA has modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the BP oil spill, and is extending the fishing restriction until May 17. Details click here.

State of Florida

The Florida Small Business Development Center Network is part of the State’s EOC Emergency Support Function as a responder for assistance in business recovery. The Mobile Area Commands are fully self-contained and staffed by SBDC Certified Business Analysts who are experienced in providing assistance to businesses impacted by disasters, including providing assistance with both federal and state disaster loan programs. The MACs are currently deployed here in Pensacola and SBDC staff are meeting with area business leaders and available to provide technical assistance to local businesses.
For more information, please visit http://www.floridasbdc.org/SpecialPrograms/bcrm.asp
The fisheries and seafood off Florida’s coast in state waters are safe and there are no health alerts at this time.
Pre-Oil Arrival Beach Cleanup Guidelines and Checklist
In response to the possibility of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill affecting the West Coast of Florida, representatives from BP, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), along with several federal, state and local agencies have officially established the incident command post in St. Petersburg.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily suspended the restriction on use of purse seines landward of the COLRGEGS demarcation line in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.
Safety Resources for Volunteers
The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service is encouraging Floridians and visitors to watch for oiled wildlife, vegetation and beaches by becoming a Coast Watch volunteer.
Coast Watchers will assist BP, the state of Florida and partnering organizations in identifying beaches that need attention.
Coast Watchers will work within the coastal communities where they live or visit and commit to do the following.
For information on scheduled beach cleanups and other volunteer opportunities, visit http://www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org/.
CFO Sink also noted that in all oil spill circumstances, affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number — (800)-440-0858. Additional guidance to help small businesses survive a disaster can be found at www.MyFloridaCFO.com or by calling (850) 413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).
The state of Florida reminds its residents and visitors that the state’s coastline has not been impacted at this time and remains open for the public enjoyment.
At this time, there are no indications of health risks to Floridians due to the Deepwater Horizon incident. The Department of Health (DOH) and DEP are closely monitoring health and environmental impacts to Florida’s beaches and will notice an advisory if conditions become unsafe.
The Attorney General’s office reported instances of fraud from companies claiming to be working with BP to set up training classes and asking people to pay up front. The training classes for oil cleanup being offered through BP are free and available to those that have registered. If you feel that you have been approached fraudulently, please call the Attorney General’s Office fraud hotline at 1-866-966-7226.
The state emergency operations center remains at a level 2 activation.

Actions by Escambia County Board of County Commissioners and Staff

Boom has been deployed in all locations of the Local Action Plan and addendum one. Staff continues to evaluate areas to determine if more boom is needed and is currently monitoring all deployed boom.
Environmental staff has completed collection of sediment, water and oyster tissue samples. The samples are currently at the lab for analysis.
Due to the exceedingly remote possibility of the oil hitting our shores over the weekend, the SRIA lifeguards are temporarily suspending the 24 hour watch. They will continue patrolling our beaches from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
The Declaration of Local State of Emergency has been extended to May 21, 2010.
On Thursday, May 6, Escambia County’s contractors deployed 5,300 feet of boom.
To keep waterways open as long as possible, boom will be “wet staged” at some locations. When floating petroleum becomes an imminent threat, boom will be fully deployed. “Fully deployed boom” is described as boom anchored into a functional configuration.
Coordinating with city officials on additional boom deployment locations.
BP has assumed deployment of boom to the Pensacola Pass East and West potions of the Escambia County Local Action Plan.
County staff will make adjustments to utilize the boom priorities of Stage One and Stage Two sites. For a complete listing of sites see the Local Action Plan beginning on page 4 and the corresponding boom deployment map.
The Local Area Plan has been approved by Secretary Sole for funding. (Plan)
A Special Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting has been scheduled for 8:30 a.m., May 13. The purpose of the meeting is to allow staff the opportunity, if necessary, to present to the Board, time-sensitive recommendations relative to the Deep Horizon Oil Plume. The meeting will be held in the Escambia County Governmental Complex, Board Chambers, Room 100, 221 Palafox Place.
We are evaluating several operational options from contractors for coastal protection and recovery.
We are looking at every viable proposal, coordinating with Unified Command and we will share that information as it is approved.
The Celebrate Escambia Waterways Beach Fun and Safety event for Saturday, May 8 has been postponed until further notice.
All along our Gulf front shoreline beaches are small, basically clear and somewhat “pointy” plankton. The Pteropod, also known as the sea butterfly, is a larval snail that is naturally occurring. These plankton blew in with the Portuguese Man-O-War and By the Wind Sailors. Although they are fairly sharp and may stick your fingers and hands when picked up or your foot when you step on them, they do not pose a threat to people. They are not washing ashore due to anything oil related.
Residents and business owners with any water access on their property should have pre-assessments prepared now (photos, video, anything documenting the current condition of your property).
The brown foam seen on the beaches recently is not associated with the oil spill. This is a common natural occurrence especially in the spring when fish are spawning and there are hard winds, rain, and wave action.
Officials continue to monitor coastlines.
The EOC remains at level 2 activation. This is a minimal activation with only specifically involved agencies activating at this time.
Meetings of all essential local emergency support agencies are being held daily.
Pre-qualified contractors and consultants are coordinating with county staff on the disaster response.
Environmental staff are confirming pre-assessments on air and water quality, and identifying any gaps.
County officials continue working through state and federal channels to establish a process for resources and equipment.
Emergency Management officials continue to communicate with the State of Florida liaison at unified command.
County staff is continuing to coordinate with the Santa Rosa Island Authority on equipment necessary for the response effort.

Local Beaches

Remain open, water is clear and air quality is good.

City of Pensacola

Coordinating with county officials.

Volunteer Opportunities & Training

Training Courses for Tuesday, May 11 and Wednesday, May 12 are now open. Click here to register or call 850-471-6600 for information if you do not have computer access.
BP has trained over 500 volunteers to date.
This is for the health and safety training. This is not training for handling oiled wildlife.

Safety Messages
Wildlife

Do not attempt to rescue oiled or injured birds or wildlife. Doing so can cause additional injuries.
If oiled, injured or dead wildlife are found, call the Oiled Wildlife hotline at 866-557-1401, please provide location of where the wildlife was sighted.
May is the hatching season for many birds and reptiles. Please use the toll free number above.

Boats

Boats should keep a safe distance from any of the booms. Do not drive boats over any booms.
Boat owners are urged to dry-dock boats.

Beaches and Waterways

Citizens should take precautions around waterways to avoid contact with oil substances.
Officials are closely monitoring potential public health and environmental concerns.

Personal Safety (if areas are affected by oil)

Avoid entering areas where oil can be seen or smelled. If you see or smell oil, leave the area immediately.
Avoid direct skin contact with oil, oil-contaminated water and sediments.
Do not swim or ski in areas affected by the oil spill, and if you travel through the area by boat, take precautions when hoisting the boat anchor. If you get oil on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
Do not fish in the oil spill-affected waters.
Do not harvest and eat dead fish, fish with oily residue or fish that have a petroleum odor.
Do not drive your boat through slicks or sheens.
Young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions should avoid the area.
Restrict pets from entering oil-contaminated areas.
Those near Florida’s Gulf Coast may detect an odor because of the oil spill. Some people are more sensitive to these odors and may experience nasal irritation and feelings of nausea. In combination with seasonal allergies, such as sensitivity to pollen or pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, some people may experience more severe symptoms.
Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illness should contact their health care provider if feeling symptomatic.
Report oiled shorelines to 866-448-5816. Report oiled wildlife to 866-557-1401.

Businesses Information

Take detailed records of canceled reservations. It is important that when these cancellations occur, the canceling party is questioned whether the cause is because of the oil spill. If the answer is yes, keep a record of the person’s name and contact information, and also the revenues lost as a result of the cancellation.
Businesses, including hoteliers, sport fishing charters, watersports rental companies, etc., that may be negatively impacted are asked to keep detailed profit and loss records and track any cancellations, should a claim need to be presented.
Calculate estimated losses for a six-week period and be able to provide records, sales receipts and documentation to support such a claim. A good idea would be to compare business now to a five-year average of revenues between May and June, which can offer insight as to the damages incurred.
Make a detailed list of assets, including non-structural, and include appropriate records to support the list. For example: if your hotel or restaurant is within walking distance to the beach and that beach has oil reach its shores, the business’s assets could be damaged even though there is no physical damage to the structure and it is important to record this depreciation.
The Vessels of Opportunities Program call 281-366-5511.
BP has established a claim system and toll free number, 800-440-0858. This system will allow people to being to process to recover lost income or recoup damage related expenses.
If you are not satisfied with BP’s resolution, there is an additional avenue for assistance available through the Coast Guard once BP has finalized your claim. Those who have already pursued the BP claims process can call the Coast Guard at 1-800-280-7118.
More information about what types of damages are eligible for compensation under the Oil Pollution Act as well as guidance on procedures to seek that compensation can be found at www.uscg.mil/npfc.
To register as a consultant, contractor, vendor or submit information on alternative response technology, services products or suggestions, call BP at 281-366-5511.

Citizen Information

The Citizen Information Center phone is open for questions from residents, 850-471-6600.

Contact Numbers

Volunteer hotline: 1-866-448-5816
Transocean hotline: 832-587-8554
MI Swaco hotline: 888-318-6765
BP Investor Relations: 381-366-3123
BP family hotline: 281-366-5578
BP third party contractor hotline: 281-366-5578

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

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