MPCA Advises Home, Business Owners to Prepare for Possible Flooding
Detroit Lakes, MN – March 23, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) — As residents of the Red River Valley continue flood preparations, homeowners and business owners should take steps now to prevent hazards associated with heating fuel oil tanks in basements or lower levels.
“Because fuel is lighter than water, floodwater that enters a basement may cause a fuel tank to tip over and float, if the tank is not secured,” said Doug Bellefeuille, emergency responder for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). “If the tank’s vent, fill pipes or other openings are not watertight, floodwater may enter the tank and force the fuel out, into the home or office. In addition to creating possible fire and environmental hazards, the fuel may be absorbed by porous building materials, such as wood, cinder block, carpet and sheetrock. Once that happens, fuel vapors may persist indefinitely in the building.”
Here are steps that will help prevent spilling or leaking of heating oil from a fuel storage tank in the event of a flood:
— If floodwater is expected to become high enough to cause a tank to shift or float, have a bulk fuel distributor remove the heating oil from the tank before any flooding can occur. Although this will make the tank more buoyant, it will also keep fuel oil from leaking into a home or office if floodwater tips the tank over or enters it through an opening. If possible, secure the tank so it will not turn or tip over should floodwater become deep enough to cause it to float.
— A less desirable alternative is to have the fuel oil tank filled so it will be less likely to float. Secure the tank’s vent, fill pipes or other openings and secure the tank to its saddle or other support so it will not turn or tip over if floodwaters become deep.
— If floodwater enters a home or office but does not directly come into contact with the tank, monitor the situation to make sure the tank’s supports are secure and its stability is not undermined by the water.
— If a tank has leaked, call the Minnesota Duty Officer at 1-800-422-0798 to report the spill and request assistance.
Home and business owners should also remove products that will become hazardous wastes from flood-prone basements or other areas. Move solvents, paints, paint thinners, pesticides, batteries, tires and household cleaners and other chemicals to a place that will not become flooded.
Also remove canned goods and other foodstuffs where they will be out of harm’s way. Should these be damaged by floodwaters, they would become contaminated and have to be thrown away.
Private wells in flooded areas may become contaminated. Contact the Minnesota Department of Health or your local health department for additional information and assistance.
Contact: Dan Olson, 218-846-8108 daniel.olson (at) pca.state.mn (dot) us Toll-free: 1-800-657-3864
