UPDATE: Multi-Agency Response To Kerosene Oil Spill In Carmarthenshire
We’re working with partners to investigate an oil spill in a Carmarthenshire stream to minimise the impact on people and the environment.
We were called on Tuesday (4 October) to investigate the kerosene leak, which entered Nant Pibwr, Nantycaws from a nearby pipeline.
Our officers are continuing to work closely with Carmarthenshire County Council, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Public Health Wales, the Police and Fire and Rescue Service and other partner agencies to monitor the local streams and rivers.
Dead fish have been seen but we are advising members of the public not to remove them from the river.
Work is ongoing to establish the extent of the spill, but specialist contractors are working with the agencies to contain the oil to minimise the risk to the surrounding area.
Aneurin Cox, South Wales Operational Resources Manager, Natural Resources Wales said:
“Natural Resources Wales is working with partner agencies to assess and minimise the risk to public health and the environment.
“Our rivers provide a home to rich, diverse and valuable species of plants and animals so it’s important to deal with pollution as quickly as possible.
“We are doing all we can to stop the pollution and reduce its impact on fish and other wildlife that depend on the river.
“If anyone sees signs of dead fish or any wildlife in distress, or has any information about the incident please report this to Natural Resources Wales on our incident hotline on 0800 807060.”
A monitoring station has also been established near Bro Myrddin School as a precautionary measure as part of the work to investigate the impact. There is no evidence of any impact in this area.
Local people may notice a smell of oil in the area, Huw Brunt, Consultant in Environmental Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said:
“It is unlikely that anyone exposed to fuel oil for a short period of time will have any long term health effects. However, as a precaution we would advise the public to avoid contact with oils or contaminated material.
“If anyone gets oil on their skin, they should remove clothing and wash using soap and water and if they feel unwell, should seek medical attention.
“We would also advise that all pets are kept out of water where oil is visible.
“Anyone noticing kerosene odours arising from within their property should ventilate the area and contact the authorities.”
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