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ST. THOMAS — The Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services is reporting that an oil spill on Tuesday afternoon was contained following swift, coordinated action by several government agencies.
In a statement on May 9, VIFEMS says that at about 1:13 that afternoon, 911 Emergency Services received a report about an oil spill in the vicinity of Long Bay and Sugar Estate. Apart from VIFEMS, the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Department of Parks and Natural Resources, and the Department of Public Works were all mobilized to respond to the spill, along with a roadside contractor.
Personnel worked to contain the spill and prevent it from reaching storm drains, maintenance holes, and gutters, according to VIFEMS. Once the source of the leak was identified as a tank o the property of the nearby Pueblo Supermarket, all relevant agencies and entities - including the business owners and managers - were contacted to address the situation.
VIFEMS Director Daryl George commended those involved in the joint operation. “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," he said.
The spill had been successfully controlled by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, according to the agency.
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