News Feature                   For Immediate Release

April 19, 2005

Possible Human Health Effects from Oil Spill on Lake Huron

The Medical Officer of Health advises that people refrain from boating and recreational activities in Lake Huron, in the oil sheen along the shoreline between MacGregor Point and Kincardine.  This area is contaminated by mineral oil released as a result of the fire last Friday, April 15 at Bruce B nuclear plant.  The mineral oil does not contain radioactive material or PCBs.  However, the oil could cause respiratory irritation and, possibly, more severe effects if drawn into people’s lungs. 

Recreational uses such as power boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and sailing should be terminated in the affected area until further notice. 

“Please stay out of the water until it is clean,” says Dr. Lynn.  “Any activity that could cause water droplets to enter the lungs should be stopped immediately.  The Public Health Unit will notify the public when the danger to health has passed.”

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For more information:

Dr. Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456