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Public Relations at the Oil Scene • Oil spills, by their very nature are of great concern to industry, government, the media and the public. While containment and cleanup are the major priorities at a spill site, a prompt, accurate and cooperative public information program is also essential . Public relations must be considered from the outset in dealing with a spill . In fact, the first reports from the scene will generally be vital in placing the incident in perspective, lessening the spread of misinformation and setting the tone for continuing media coverage. IT CANNOT BE EMPHASIZED ENOUGH THAT FAILURE TO PROVIDE PERTINENT INFORMATION TO THE APPROPRIATE GOVERNMENT AUTHORITIES, THE PUBLIC AND THE MEDIA AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE WILL CREATE UNNECESSARY HEADACHES IN DEALING WITH A SPILL INCIDENT (AND VERY OFTEN, HINDER THE JOB OF THE TECHNICAL PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACTUAL CLEANUP WORK. ) Having said that, it follows that a plan must be in place to designate appropriate spokesmen, define the kind of information that may be provided, outline the procedures for passing on the information, and position an ongoing public relations program that would be of value in the event of a spill . Depending on the nature and location of the spill and the contingency plan in effect, responsibility for providing information may be assumed by a municipality, a federal agency such as the Environmental Protection Agency, by a petroleum company or industrial association, or some combination of the above acting jointly. Normally, several agencies and bodies would be involved and care should be taken from the outset to coordinate public statements and develop a compatible public relations program. The Audiences An oil spill almost automatically creates the following audiences either at the scene or anywhere that people may hear about the incident: a. The Local Population - There may be homeowners, residents, farmers, or others directly affected by the spill itself. They have a specific need for information especially since the spill may present dangers to life or property. They are also guaranteed to be sources of information for media representatives who may come to the site or seek information by telephone. b. The Media - An enterprising media representative may be the first on a scene, but it is certain a newspaper, radio or television newsman will be there as soon as possible, even if the site is remote, depending on the severity of the spill . Any company, group or agency identified with the spill will also be queried by the media at their regional or head offices. c. Assisting Forces - Police or fire departments, municipal emergency crews, government agencies, or others who would normally be directly or peripherally involved in an incident of this nature, have a need for information. d. Special Interest Groups - Citizen groups, insurance agents, politicians, etc., often are attracted to the scene for various purposes. e. Any company involved in the spill and concerned about liability, image or other considerations, may be present to protect its interests.