David LaPusata of MassDep-Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup and his crew spent the day training
Harbormasters and Firefighters from Winthrop and surrounding communities how to handle both
oil and hazardous spills in the water. 

Every waterfront community is given a 20 ft BoomTrailer which contains 1000 ft of boom and absorbent marterials to contain and handle any spills that become dangerous to both the aquatic and marine environment.

Each training consists

of a full day of classroom training in the morning, and practical training in the afternoon. Here you'll see MassDep's consultants showing participants how to setup the boom, add a line, etc.

So, who's paying for this?  MassDEP. When resources are used, Winthrop just has to fill out a request
form for more supplies and they'll be send immediately. The only true cost is that of any personnel
that participate in the cleanups (which would happen anyways).

According to LaPasata, if you see an oil spill or a more than usual sheen in the water, the first thing
you should do is call either the fire department or the harbormaster's office. Depending on the nature
of the spill/leak, Winthrop has the option to call any of the surrounding waterfront
communities to bring in their trailers for more materials as needed. This works the same as the
fire department calls on surrounding towns for help.  MassDep may also be called and they will
send in their contractors who are trained in these areas.

For more information about the boom trailer go to: http://www.mass.gov/dep/public/press/0809spil.htm

Want to report a spill?  Call 1-888-304-1133