Who should spills be reported to in foreign waters?

Spills in foreign waters should be reported to the National Response Center. This response is primarily because the National Response Center serves as the central point for reporting oil and hazardous substance spills that threaten the environment or public health, even when these incidents occur outside of domestic waters. It is a federal requirement in the United States for any spill that poses a significant risk, ensuring that appropriate measures can be coordinated in response to the incident.

This process is critical as it allows for a systematic approach to managing spills on an international level, working in conjunction with other nations, local authorities, and international protocols. By reporting to the National Response Center, the response can be coordinated with multiple agencies and resources that are well-equipped to handle various spill scenarios.

In contrast, local government authorities, while important in handling spills within their jurisdiction, may not have the necessary resources or authority to manage incidents that occur in international waters. Similarly, Coast Guard Headquarters and the Environmental Protection Agency play roles in environmental protection and response, but they are not the primary entities for reporting spills that happen in foreign waters. The National Response Center is specifically designated to handle these types of reports, ensuring effective communication and action in conjunction with international maritime responses.