YOU ARE THE ON-SCENE COMMANDER

Characteristics of oil spills are summarized with regard to causes, effects of winds and currents, methods of estimating the quantity of oil, and specific damage done by the oil. A summary of the currently available tools and the priority of attack for combating oil spills is presented, covering prevention of any spill, containment of what has been spilled, removal of the oil from the water surface, and shore cleanup. The major features of the National Multiagency Oil and Hazardous Materials Contingency Plan are outlined, with emphasis on the responsibilities of the on-scene commanders for monitoring and reporting, and directing all federal response. Coordination of activities during the Santa Barbara spill is described.