How to Clean up Oil along the Beach

With the recent oil disaster facing the gulf coast, I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some clean up suggestions along the beaches.

If you own beach front property, document what you do.  Take pictures and make video tapes, of the area before and after.  Keep track of supplies and man power used.  Also, keep track of total hours.

1.  Avoid trampling all over it.  Keep animals and pedestrians away from the beach.  Put up signs like "Keep Off."

2.  Get the right equipment needed.  You will need plastic bags and rubber bands.  A one gallon plastic pot, which fits a bag, with a rubber band.  One Kitty Liter Scoop with a flat blade.  This allows you to shake out extra sand.  One small flat stick.  Thin and well fitting gloves.  Paper towels for equipment clean up.

3.  On the sand you will see black globs from fist size on down.  On sand, you can scoop these ups.

4.  If you find oil on rocks, leave it for the professionals.

5.  Place plastic bags over your shoes and rubber band them over them.

6.  Pick a clean area to stand on and clean your next standing spot first.  Then continue to proceed to your next spot.

7.  Wear a face mask, if the smell tends to make you sick or give you a headache.

Procedure

Scoop up your oil with the scoop and stick.  Gently, shake the loose sand away.  Dump your scoop into the bucket in the plastic bag.  The bucket helps keep the edges of the bag from getting oil on it.  No oil should ever get on your hands or skin.  However, your feet are different.  there will be oil hidden by the sand and you will step on it.  When your bag gets full, twist and tie it off.  Keep all filled bags in one particular spot.  Once collected, let the coast guard know.

Dead fish and wildlife should be bagged, too.  Keep fish separate from warm blooded animals.

Always work in a group, never alone.  However, do not let people help unless they are prepared.  No exceptions.  If the fumes get to great, leave for a bit and return later.

When you are finished cleaning, discard your plastic and shower well.

Many times, public beaches will ban cleanup crews.  Know the laws and obey them.

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