In April 2010, an explosion led to the sinking of an oil well and a situation where large amounts of oil began flowing into deep water in the Gulf of Mexico. Although many people are working to fix this problem, millions of gallons of oil have leaked into the ocean and have created an oil slick on the surface of the water that covers hundreds of miles. This oil is now polluting the air and beaches in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. If weather conditions change, it may spread to other areas.
Children Need to be Protected
Oil is toxic and includes harmful substances that can get into the air, food, and water. Exposure to oil is especially harmful to children. Parents and caregivers should become aware of the health concerns related to the oil spill and what they need to do to keep their children safe.
- Keep children out of areas where the water or land contains oil or sludge. Children and teenagers should not enter these areas and should not be involved in swimming, boating, fishing, or any other activities in areas impacted by the oil spill.
- Follow local guidelines. Each state has a system for monitoring air, food, and water. Check the local or state website for information on beach and park closures and other advisories:
- Children and teenagers should not be involved in clean-up efforts but should only return after the area is cleaned up. Children should be the last group to return to areas where there is oil or sludge.
- Some children (for example, those with asthma) may be at increased risk or may develop respiratory symptoms even after one exposure to oil or chemicals in the air. Contact your child’s pediatrician if they develop symptoms that you are concerned about.
Communication Tips for Parents and Caregivers
The negative effects of the oil spill can be worrisome and overwhelming to children. Messages in the media about the oil spill can be concerning. Children may have difficulty understanding and coping, especially if they were already worried about their family or community. There may also be an added sense of helplessness for those traumatized by a previous storm or hurricane. Fear may be intensified if new hurricanes or storms come into the same area.
If children are worried or have questions about the oil spill, it’s important to talk with them about their feelings. Talks may be about:
- The facts. Talk to children about the oil spill. Ask them if they have questions and listen to what they say. This can help them understand the situation, including the risks they may be exposed to on a day-to-day basis and what they can do to keep themselves safe.
- Fears. Some children may feel hopeless or develop a range of stress-related symptoms. For example, it may be upsetting for them to see dead or oil-covered fish, birds, or other wildlife. They may worry that they will get sick or die. Adults should promote adjustment and help children cope. Adults can also reassure children that many people are working to stop the spill, protect the environment, clean up the oil, and help save wildlife.
- The economy. Taking care of children during tough financial times is extremely challenging. Children can sense stress and become anxious or upset, especially if no one communicates with them. Adults should talk to children about the economy and reassure them whenever possible.
- How to help. Even though children should not be directly involved in the clean-up, they can be encouraged to talk about the oil spill and find ways to help. Children can volunteer at a local wildlife center or learn about ways to save energy and use less oil.
Resources
How to Talk to Kids About the Gulf Oil Spill: A Guide for Parents and Teachers (National Wildlife Federation)
Shore up Your Resilience to Manage Distress Caused by the Oil Disaster in the Gulf (American Psychological Association)
The Big Oil Spill: Ranger Rick Answers Questions (National Wildlife Federation)
What to Expect From the Oil Spill and How to Protect Your Health (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
What You Can Do (US Environmental Protection Agency)
