NEW TOLL-FREE NUMBER AVAILABLE TO REPORT WATER POLLUTION ISSUES

ANAHEIM Calif. (Dec. 8, 2008) – The County of Orange’s Project Pollution Prevention program announced a new hotline number 1-877-89-SPILL (1-877-897-7455). This new number offers a toll-free way for residents and business owners in Orange County to report problems with storm drains and flood control channels. Such problems may include debris obstructions, foul odors, overgrown vegetation and spills into catch basins.

The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and allows for rapid response to environmental spills and other pollution problems before they can make serious impacts on our waterways and ocean. The calls are responded to by the OC Public Works Water Pollution Response Unit.

Water runoff can be a serious water pollution issue. By picking up after their pets, throwing away or recycling their litter and limiting their use of pesticides and fertilizer, Orange County residents can help protect our water quality. For tips on ways to prevent water pollution in Orange County log on to www.ocwatersheds.com.

###