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small noaa logo Home | Emergency Response | Responding to Oil Spills

Questions About Economic Concerns

Here are answers to some questions about in-situ burning's effect on the economy.

Q. What effect does in-situ burning (ISB) have on the fishing industry?

A. One of the reasons a burn is done is to prevent adverse effects to marine life, including fish. ISB should not have any adverse effects on the fishing industry.

Q. What will be the water quality after a burn?

A. Because burning will remove almost all of the contained oil from the water surface, water quality should not be affected. After a burn, responders may sample the water, which provides them with a better overall assessment of the water quality in the area.

Q. What should I do to protect my house and business during a burn?

A. Generally, there is no need for you to take any special actions to protect your home or business. In-situ burns are usually conducted at sea and the burning procedure eliminates most of the oil in a safe and efficient manner. The response organizations will keep you updated before and during the burn and will notify you if there are any measures you should take.

Q. How soon after a burn can recreational boating resume?

A. The response organizations generally establish a safety zone around the burn. You may continue to use boats outside of this zone, as directed by the U.S. Coast Guard. The zone will be opened as soon as the response is completed.

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