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What are oil spills?

It is when oil, such as petrol, leaks into a waterway. Oil spills usually leak into the ocean.

Why do oil spills happen?

• Leaks from oil rigs, which are tools used to drill oil from underground.

• Leaks from boats or ships, which cause oil to go directly into the ocean.

• Leaks from cars, which run off roads, into a drain, and into the ocean.

• When countries are at war, one country might dump huge amounts of oil into another country's waterways.

• Some people and companies dump oil that they don't want into the ocean, because they don't want to spend time or money getting rid of the oil responsibly.

How can oil spills be harmful to plants and animals?

• Birds and mammals who live on the land can become covered with oil as it leaks into the ocean. These animals die very painfully.

• All living things in an ocean, such as fish and plankton, can have their homes destroyed by oil spills. They then need to find new homes in a part of the ocean that is unpolluted.

• The oil can get into the water we drink and make everyone very sick.

How can oils spills be controlled so less harm will be caused?

• Booms (floating oil barriers) can keep spills from leaking more oil into the water.

• Sorbents (big sponges) can be used to soak up oil.

• Beaches can be washed off with hoses.

What can you do to help?

• If your parents own a car or boat, ask them to regularly check that they don't have any oil leaks.

• If you see any oil in waterways, tell your parents or a teacher.

Remember?

Oil spills can harm human and animal life, as well as the places you enjoy going to, like the beach. Make sure you and your family do your part to stop oil spills!