Yellowknife (Oct 08/04) - Homeowners preparing for the winter season should be aware of their legal responsibility to properly maintain their heating fuel tanks.

"Homeowners are strongly advised as part of winter preparation to check home heating fuel tanks," said Emery Paquin, director of environmental protection.

"Preventing spills will not only prevent damage to the environment but will also avoid expensive cleanup bills and possible decreases to property values," Paquin continued.

The Environmental Protection Act states that owners are responsible for reporting a spill, cleaning up any contamination and notifying anyone who may be affected by it.

"Failure to do so could lead to legal actions," said Paquin.

"There are two approaches to fines. The owner could be ticketed for $250 or, under the Environmental Protection Act, could be charged a much higher amount."

According to Paquin, the minimum reportable quantity of a spill is 100 litres.

"However, we encourage any reports, as even five gallons (22 litres) could cause significant environmental damage and a cleanup cost," he said.

In 2003 there were 40 spills reported, which is not unusual, according to Paquin.

"It is really important that tanks be checked and set up properly in the fall," he said.

"Homeowners should be sure that their tanks are on flat, solid ground, as we get a lot of tanks falling over during the spring thaw."