Crews respond to oil spill in Red Deer

The City will continue to monitor the area; meanwhile, the source and nature of the spill is still under investigation.

While the City of Red Deer’s drinking water was unaffected due to the location of the incident, the spill is a reminder that anything entering the stormwater system can impact the river, wildlife, and drinking water sources.

In the meantime, the city is asking residents to bone up on the Only Rain In The Storm Drain campaign, which educates residents on the dangers of letting material other than rainwater and snowmelt enter the stormwater system.

“As run-off flows across surfaces like sidewalks, driveways, grass and asphalt, it picks up pollutants and carries them into the storm drains and directly into the river,” the city notes in a release.

“Spilled or improperly disposed materials can harm the environment, pollute drinking water sources and increase treatment needs during Spring Run-off.”

Red Deerians are encouraged to report any spills they encounter in the water or on streets. A spill is any unexpected or uncontrolled release of a liquid, solid or gas.

To report a spill, call:

Alberta Environment Spill Hotline: 1-800-222-6514 (waterways)
City of Red Deer Source Control: 403-342-8750 (streets)

If you feel unwell due to a smell or spill, leave the area and stay safe until help arrives.

Residents and business owners are also reminded to prevent spills before they happen:

Store oil, paint and chemicals safely—never left outside in open or uncovered containers
Never pour any substances into storm drains, as they lead directly into the river
Recycle used oil at an Alberta Recycling Management Authority-approved processor

The spill has been reported by the city to Alberta’s Ministry of Environment and Protected Areas, as required by legislation.

by Josh Hall

Crews respond to oil spill in Red Deer

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