Clear Ice and Snow from Outdoor Oil Tanks

Residences with outdoor, above-ground oil tanks are advised to remove ice and snow from the fuel line to ensure it doesn't get severed, recommends the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Labour.

Department staff have received an increasing number of reports of oil spills caused by ice buildups or falling ice breaking fuel lines.

Deputy Fire Marshal Harold Pothier says it is better to prevent the line from being severed than to face a big cleanup bill and pollution problems later.

"In this case, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," says Mr. Pothier.

People can use a shovel to clear snow and ice away from the line, Mr. Pothier says, but they have to be cautious, of course, not to sever the line in doing so.

If the line is too icy, hot water can be used to melt the ice. If icicles or ice and snow from a roof threaten to break the line, it is recommended that the line be covered and, if possible, the icicles be removed.