A large oil spill was reported to 911 dispatch in the vicinity of Long Bay and Sugar Estate Tuesday, the V.I. Fire and Emergency Medical Services reported.
Upon arrival, the Hotel Company met a significant oil spill and immediately dispatched the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services to establish a unified command, according to a press release.
In response to the incident, the VIPD, DPNR, DPW, and a roadside contractor were requested to assist in containing the spill and preventing it from reaching storm drains, maintenance holes, and gutters. The DPW brought in sand to help control the spill, and once the spill was contained, efforts to clean up the area began. Further investigation revealed that the source of the spill was a tank on the property of the Pueblo Supermarket. All relevant agencies were promptly contacted, including the owners and managers of the supermarket, to address the situation, the release stated.
At 4:00 p.m., the oil spill incident was successfully controlled. The situation was quickly addressed and resolved thanks to the concerted efforts of the VIFEMS, VIPD, DPNR, DPW, and the roadside contractor. The cleanup efforts were thorough, and the affected area will be monitored to ensure no further environmental or safety concerns develop, the authorities reported.
“I commend all the men and women involved in this joint operation for their swift and collaborative response to the incident,” said Director Daryl George. “The prompt response and effective collaboration of the various agencies involved in the incident demonstrate their commitment to public safety and the protection of the environment.”
