Here in the us there are supposed response teams that do stuff like pick up tar balls, spread hay around to soak up the oil, things like that.
They have been asking to do something yet are turned away.
There is some fears (rightfully so) that some of these pepole may be adversly effected healthwise and end up in lawsuits etc.
Already there has been claims by LA fishermen whom were asked to help with the booms.
The federal goverments course of action?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100601/...gulf_oil_spill
That will be sure to help.