Page 7 - Take a Closer Look at Oil
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Oil Spills
Some oil fl ows into waterways from natural seeps. But
humans can cause bigger problems. Oil runs into rivers and
lakes. It leaks from boats and jet skis. It spills from tanker
ships. These spills can harm or kill people and wildlife. They
can ruin fragile habitats.
Floating booms contain some spills on the water’s surface.
Workers on boats can scoop up the oil. Large sponges absorb
some oil. Some oil spills are set on fi re. Chemicals can break
up oil slicks. But they are toxic to animals and people.
Oily birds and animals cannot stay warm. They lose water
resistance. They swallow poison chemicals. Even cleanup
workers can become ill from breathing spilled oil.
A 2013 oil spill damaged beaches in Thailand.
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