WASHINGTON — The oil industry’s leading trade group on Friday praised railroads’ plans to boost the safety of hauling crude across the country, but cautioned against other changes that could create new risks.
“There’s a lot of things we can do, but we’ve got to keep our eyes focused on the objective, and that is to improve safety to get to zero incidents,” said American Petroleum Institute President Jack Gerard, in an interview. “We’ve got to make sure we’re focused in that narrow band like a laser beam, and not on chasing other issues that may not have any positive impact on safety.”
Under a deal reached between the Transportation Department and the Association of American Railroads, oil trains carrying at least 3 million gallons of crude will slow down near big cities in an effort to reduce the risk of potentially devastating derailments. The group also pledged more inspections of thousands of miles of tracks increasingly being used to ferry oil from North Dakota and other states to Gulf Coast and Canadian refineries.
American Petroleum Institute President Jack Gerard said the voluntary agreement spurred by recent accidents in Philadelphia, North Dakota and Canada was “a positive step forward.” But, he added: “We’ll have to look closely now and see what does that actually do to advance safety, and how does it complement the other components that are being worked on.”
For the oil industry, lower speeds could remove one of the main advantages of moving crude by rail, which generally costs more than pipelines.
Related story: Train explosions prompt companies to upgrade oil tankers voluntarily
Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx in January asked API and the railroads group to strategize ways to boost rail safety, focusing on preventing accidents in the first place, mitigating the damage from them and responding to the emergencies.
Some oil industry leaders are wary of possible new mandates for more robust tankers, after DOT-111 cars made before 2011 were deemed prone to rupture.
Gerard suggested that mandates for new tankers with thicker walls and ends could create new dangers, because each car would hold less product and more tankers would be needed to haul the same amount of crude.
“If you continue to allow the cars to derail, then you really haven’t resolved the safety consideration,” Gerard said. “You’ve just dealt with part of it — mitigation — without addressing the fundamental cause, or the root cause, which is the derailment in the first place.”
Gerard insisted a “holistic” approach was needed to boosting rail safety.
“We need to make sure we’re not just moving the risk up and down the transportation chain,” he said.
Smoke rises from railway cars that were carrying crude oil after derailing in downtown Lac Megantic, Quebec, Canada. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson, File)
Smoke rises from railway cars that were carrying crude oil after derailing in downtown Lac Megantic, Quebec, Canada. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson, File)
Photo: Paul Chiasson / AP
Emergency crews work a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, Alberta, Canada, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine Paquin said 13 cars, four carrying petroleum crude oil and nine loaded with liquified petroleum gas, came off the tracks around 1 a.m. local time in the hamlet of Gainford, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Edmonton. The entire community of roughly 100 people was evacuated. less
Emergency crews work a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, Alberta, Canada, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine ... more
Photo: Royal Canadian Mounted Police / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Emergency crews work a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, Alberta, Canada, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine Paquin said 13 cars, four carrying petroleum crude oil and nine loaded with liquified petroleum gas, came off the tracks around 1 a.m. local time in the hamlet of Gainford, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Edmonton. The entire community of roughly 100 people was evacuated. less
Emergency crews work a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, Alberta, Canada, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine ... more
Photo: Royal Canadian Mounted Police / AP
Fire burns on the horizon at the scene of a train derailment near Plaster Rock, New Brunswick on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A freight train carrying crude oil and propane derailed and caught fire in a sparsely populated region of New Brunswick late Tuesday, leading to the evacuation of about two dozen nearby homes, authorities said. less
Fire burns on the horizon at the scene of a train derailment near Plaster Rock, New Brunswick on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A freight train carrying crude oil and propane derailed and caught fire in a sparsely ... more
Photo: Tom Bateman / AP
Canadian National Railway personnel respond after a train derailment outside of Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A Canadian National Railway freight train carrying crude oil and propane derailed Tuesday night in a sparsely populated region of northwestern New Brunswick. More than 100 residents remained evacuated from their homes. There were no deaths or injuries. less
Canadian National Railway personnel respond after a train derailment outside of Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A Canadian National Railway freight train carrying crude oil and ... more
Photo: Tom Bateman / AP
Canadian National Railway personnel congregate at the Tobique-Plex in Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A Canadian National Railway freight train carrying crude oil and propane derailed Tuesday night in a sparsely populated region of northwestern New Brunswick. More than 100 residents remained evacuated from their homes. There were no deaths or injuries. less
Canadian National Railway personnel congregate at the Tobique-Plex in Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada on Wednesday Jan. 8, 2014. A Canadian National Railway freight train carrying crude oil and propane ... more
Photo: Tom Bateman / AP
Firefighters block the highway near Gainford, Alberta, Canada as emergency crews battle a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford,west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine Paquin said 13 cars, four carrying petroleum crude oil and nine loaded with liquified petroleum gas, came off the tracks around 1 a.m. local time in the hamlet of Gainford, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Edmonton. The entire community of roughly 100 people was evacuated. less
Firefighters block the highway near Gainford, Alberta, Canada as emergency crews battle a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford,west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, ... more
Photo: Jason Franson / AP
Firefighters block the highway near Gainford, Alberta, Canada as emergency crews battle a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. Canadian National spokesman Louis-Antoine Paquin said 13 cars, four carrying petroleum crude oil and nine loaded with liquified petroleum gas, came off the tracks around 1 a.m. local time in the hamlet of Gainford, about 50 miles from Edmonton. The entire community of roughly 100 people was evacuated. less
Firefighters block the highway near Gainford, Alberta, Canada as emergency crews battle a massive fire after a CN tanker train carrying oil and gas derailed in Gainford, west of Edmonton on Saturday, Oct. 19, ... more
Photo: JASON FRANSON / AP
Firefighters water railway cars the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil in Lac Megantic, Que. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson, File)
Firefighters water railway cars the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil in Lac Megantic, Que. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson, File)
Photo: Paul Chiasson / AP
Workers move among damaged tank cars at the crash site of the train derailment and fire Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, derailment that left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Workers move among damaged tank cars at the crash site of the train derailment and fire Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, derailment that left 37 people confirmed dead and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, pool) less
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
A worker drives past the twisted remains of a tanker car Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, at the site of the train derailment and fire. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
A worker drives past the twisted remains of a tanker car Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, at the site of the train derailment and fire. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The derailment July 6, 2013, left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. T(AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The derailment July 6, 2013, left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Crews move through the debris Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Crews move through the debris Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Cleanup crews pump oil on the shores of Lac-Megantic, Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The derailment of the unmanned oil train July 6, 2013, devastated the town, left 37 people confirmed dead, another 13 missing and presumed dead and spilled oil into the lake. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Cleanup crews pump oil on the shores of Lac-Megantic, Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The derailment of the unmanned oil train July 6, 2013, devastated the town, left 37 people confirmed ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Bare, blackened trees stand Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, as work continues at the site of the train derailment and fire. The accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Bare, blackened trees stand Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, as work continues at the site of the train derailment and fire. The accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
In this Friday, July 12, 2013, photo, work continues at the crash site on in Lac-Megantic, Quebec of a train that derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil that killed fifty people. U.S. and Canadian drillers are producing oil faster than new pipelines can be built. As a result, trains have become an unexpected yet vital way to move this bounty of energy from the continents midsection to refineries along the coasts. However, since the July 6 tragedy in Lac-Megantic, where a runaway train carrying 72 carloads of crude derailed and killed 50 people, there have been calls for tougher regulations, stronger rail cars and more pipelines. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
In this Friday, July 12, 2013, photo, work continues at the crash site on in Lac-Megantic, Quebec of a train that derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil that killed fifty people. U.S. and Canadian ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Emergency workers examine the aftermath of a train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013. Thirty-seven bodies have been recovered and another 13 people missing are still missinfg after the July 6, 2013, derailment. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Emergency workers examine the aftermath of a train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013. Thirty-seven bodies have been recovered and another 13 people missing are still ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Workers stand before mangled tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, pool) less
Workers stand before mangled tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Emergency workers examine the aftermath of a train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013. Thirty-seven bodies have been recovered and another 13 people missing are still missinfg after the July 6, 2013, derailment. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Emergency workers examine the aftermath of a train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013. Thirty-seven bodies have been recovered and another 13 people missing are still ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Worker are seen by damaged tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Worker are seen by damaged tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Cranes move a burnt out tanker Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Cranes move a burnt out tanker Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Workers pas tje wreckage of a tanker car Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, pool) less
Workers pas tje wreckage of a tanker car Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Cleanup crews pump oil from Lac-Megantic Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The train derailment and fire July 6, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead and spilled oil into the lake. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Cleanup crews pump oil from Lac-Megantic Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The train derailment and fire July 6, 2013, in Lac-Megantic, left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Cranes move a burnt out tanker Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Cranes move a burnt out tanker Tuesday, July 16, 2013, as work continues at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Workers stand before mangled tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, pool) less
Workers stand before mangled tanker cars Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013, accident left 37 people confirmed dead and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, Pool) less
Work continues Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the crash site of the train derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic, Quebec. The July 6, 2013 derailment left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Workers sift through debris Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, in front of the white house that was unscathed by the train derailment July 6, 2013. The derailment and fire left 37 people confirmed dead and another 13 missing and presumed dead. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Workers sift through debris Tuesday, July 16, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, in front of the white house that was unscathed by the train derailment July 6, 2013. The derailment and fire left 37 people ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
The downtown core lies in ruins Thursday, July 11, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. The first victim of a runaway oil train's explosive derailment in the Quebec town was identified Thursday, more than five days since the disaster, which left behind a scorched scene so dangerous that it slowed the search for 50 people presumed dead. (AP Photo/Ryan Remiorz, The Canadian Press) less
The downtown core lies in ruins Thursday, July 11, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. The first victim of a runaway oil train's explosive derailment in the Quebec town was identified Thursday, more than ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
The Canadian flag of the Peace Tower flies at half-mast on Parliament Hill Ottawa on Tuesday, July 11, 2013, in Ottawa, Ontario, for victims of the in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, train disaster. Everyone missing in the fiery crash of a runaway oil train in Quebec is presumed dead, police told grieving families, bringing the death toll to 50 in Canada's worst railway catastrophe in almost 150 years. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Sean Kilpatrick) less
The Canadian flag of the Peace Tower flies at half-mast on Parliament Hill Ottawa on Tuesday, July 11, 2013, in Ottawa, Ontario, for victims of the in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, train disaster. Everyone missing in ... more
Photo: Sean Kilpatrick / Associated Press
Quebec Premier Pauline Marois talks with volunteer Marie-Josee Chevrier during her visit to Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Thursday, July 11, 2013. Marois toured the site of Canada's worst railway catastrophe in almost 150 years, after a runaway oil train killed 50 people in a fiery explosion. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Quebec Premier Pauline Marois talks with volunteer Marie-Josee Chevrier during her visit to Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Thursday, July 11, 2013. Marois toured the site of Canada's worst railway catastrophe in ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
A family walks into a shelter in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Thursday, July 11, 2013, for evacuees of the area where a runaway oil train caused a fiery explosion on July 6. Everyone missing in the fiery crash of a runaway oil train in Quebec is presumed dead, police told grieving families, bringing the death toll to 50 in Canada's worst railway catastrophe in almost 150 years. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Jacques Boissinot) less
A family walks into a shelter in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Thursday, July 11, 2013, for evacuees of the area where a runaway oil train caused a fiery explosion on July 6. Everyone missing in the fiery crash of ... more
Photo: Jacques Boissinot / Associated Press
An investigator looks over tanker cars that were pulled away from the Lac-Mégantic derailed train inferno, in Nantes, Quebec on Thursday July 11, 2013. Everyone missing in the fiery crash of a runaway oil train in Quebec is presumed dead, police told grieving families, bringing the death toll to 50 in Canada's worst railway catastrophe in almost 150 years. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
An investigator looks over tanker cars that were pulled away from the Lac-Mégantic derailed train inferno, in Nantes, Quebec on Thursday July 11, 2013. Everyone missing in the fiery crash of a runaway oil ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
FILE - In this Sept. 11, 1998, file photo, a Swissair member lights a candle during a memorial service in Zurich for the victims of Swissair Flight 111, which crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, on Sept. 2 killing 229 people. The plane crash was among Canada's deadliest accidents in the last 150 years, killing 229. Police say 50 people are presumed dead following a July 6, 2013, fiery oil train crash in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, making it Canadas worst railway crash in nearly 150 years. (AP Photo/Christoph Ruckstuhl, File) less
FILE - In this Sept. 11, 1998, file photo, a Swissair member lights a candle during a memorial service in Zurich for the victims of Swissair Flight 111, which crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off Peggy's Cove, ... more
Photo: Christoph Ruckstuhl / Associated Press
Rail World Inc. President Edward Burkhardt speaks to the media as he tours Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Wednesday, July 10, 2013. Burkhardt said Wednesday that an employee failed to properly set the brakes of the train that crashed into a town in Quebec, killing at least 15 people. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
Rail World Inc. President Edward Burkhardt speaks to the media as he tours Lac-Megantic, Quebec, on Wednesday, July 10, 2013. Burkhardt said Wednesday that an employee failed to properly set the brakes of the ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / AP
A makeshift memorial for victims of Saturday's oil train derailment and explosions is set up in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Wednesday, July 10, 2013. Rescuers have recovered 15 bodies from the wreckage so far, but they are so badly burnt that authorities have not been able to identify them. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
A makeshift memorial for victims of Saturday's oil train derailment and explosions is set up in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Wednesday, July 10, 2013. Rescuers have recovered 15 bodies from the wreckage so far, but ... more
Photo: Paul Chiasson / AP
Charred tanker cars are piled up in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. Investigators are looking for the cause of the fiery oil train derailment Saturday that led to the explosions that killed at least 13 people. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Jacques Boissinot ) less
Charred tanker cars are piled up in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. Investigators are looking for the cause of the fiery oil train derailment Saturday that led to the explosions that killed at ... more
Photo: Jacques Boissinot / AP
Richard LeFebvre, of nearby town of St. Romain, awaits, on Wednesday, July 10, 2013, the arrival of Edward Burkhardt, president and CEO of the railway company that owns the train that derailed in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, outside a high school in Lac-Megantic that is serving as a shelter for evacuees. (AP Photo/David Crary) less
Richard LeFebvre, of nearby town of St. Romain, awaits, on Wednesday, July 10, 2013, the arrival of Edward Burkhardt, president and CEO of the railway company that owns the train that derailed in Lac-Megantic, ... more
Photo: David Crary / AP
Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers guard the main locomotive involved in a July 6 fatal train derailment and explosion in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Jacques Boissinot) less
Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers guard the main locomotive involved in a July 6 fatal train derailment and explosion in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Jacques ... more
Photo: Jacques Boissinot / AP
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows wrecked oil tankers and debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows wrecked oil tankers and debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
Environment workers lay booms on the Chaudiere River near Lac-Megantic, Que., to contain the crude oil spill following a train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Jacques Boissinot) less
Environment workers lay booms on the Chaudiere River near Lac-Megantic, Que., to contain the crude oil spill following a train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were ... more
Photo: Jacques Boissinot / Associated Press
National Transportation Safety Board officials, lead investigator Donald Ross, right, and regional official Ed Belkaloul (left), address reporters at a news conference in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz) less
National Transportation Safety Board officials, lead investigator Donald Ross, right, and regional official Ed Belkaloul (left), address reporters at a news conference in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. ... more
Photo: Paul Chiasson / Associated Press
This aerial photo, a oil slick floats on the water at the local marina after Saturday's train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
This aerial photo, a oil slick floats on the water at the local marina after Saturday's train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least ... more
Photo: Paul Chiasson / Associated Press
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. ... more
Photo: Paul Chiasson / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
Environment workers lay booms on the Chaudiere River near Lac-Megantic, Que., to contain the crude oil spill following a train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Jacques Boissinot) less
Environment workers lay booms on the Chaudiere River near Lac-Megantic, Que., to contain the crude oil spill following a train derailment and explosion, Tuesday, July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were ... more
Photo: Jacques Boissinot / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early ... more
Photo: HO / Associated Press
The remains of tanker cars lie burnt out in the downtown core Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil and devastated the town. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The remains of tanker cars lie burnt out in the downtown core Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil and devastated the ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
Burnt out oil tank cars and the destroyed downtown core lays in ruins as firefighters continue to water smouldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil on Saturday. (AP Photo/ THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Burnt out oil tank cars and the destroyed downtown core lays in ruins as firefighters continue to water smouldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed igniting ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Ryan Remiorz / Associated Press
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The runaway train derailed, causing explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The runaway ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Canadian Prime Minister Harper, right, surveys the scene Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, as firefighters continue to spray derailed tanker cars. A runaway train derailed Saturday causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil and destroyed part of the downtown area of Lac Megantic. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS, Paul Chiasson) less
Canadian Prime Minister Harper, right, surveys the scene Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, as firefighters continue to spray derailed tanker cars. A runaway train derailed Saturday causing ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Prime Minister Harper, center, talks with firefighters Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday exploding tanker cars carrying crude oil and destroying part of the downtown area of Lac Megantic. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS, Paul Chiasson) less
Prime Minister Harper, center, talks with firefighters Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday exploding tanker cars carrying crude oil and destroying part of the ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Prime Minister Stepen Harperwaves to people as he visits the site Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec, where a runaway train derailed Saturday. Tanker cars carrying oil exploded after the derailment and destroyed the business district in Lac Megantic. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
Prime Minister Stepen Harperwaves to people as he visits the site Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec, where a runaway train derailed Saturday. Tanker cars carrying oil exploded after the derailment ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The derailment Saturday caused explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The derailment ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed in eastern Quebec, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed a town's downtown center. The confirmed death toll is now three, and is expected to rise further. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson less
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Damage in the downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013, the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson)
Damage in the downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013, the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson)
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed in eastern Quebec, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed a town's downtown center. The confirmed death toll is now three, and is expected to rise further. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson less
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. More bodies were recovered Sunday in the devastated town of Lac Megantic, raising the death toll to at least five after a runaway train derailed, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. With dozens of people reported missing, authorities feared they could find more bodies once they reached the hardest-hit areas. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. More bodies were ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Workers inspect a railway car that was part of a convoy of railway cars carrying crude oil that derailed Saturday causing explosions Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed in eastern Quebec, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed a town's downtown center. The confirmed death toll is now three, and is expected to rise further. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson less
Workers inspect a railway car that was part of a convoy of railway cars carrying crude oil that derailed Saturday causing explosions Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Fire Chief of the Lac-Mégantic fire department, Denis Lauzon(C) briefs reporters July 7, 2013 as his crews continue to work extinguishing fires after a freight train loaded with oil derailed July 6 in Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec province, sparking explosions that engulfed about 30 buildings in a wall of fire. Now scores of people -- perhaps as many as 80 -- are missing. Rescuers cautiously entered the charred debris Sunday, more than 24 hours after the spectacular crash that saw flames shoot into the sky and burn into the night. The accident and resulting huge fireball forced 2,000 people from their homes. Witnesses reported up to six explosions after the train derailed at about 1:20 am (0520 GMT Saturday) in Lac-Megantic. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Fire Chief of the Lac-Mégantic fire department, Denis Lauzon(C) briefs reporters July 7, 2013 as his crews continue to work extinguishing fires after a freight train loaded with oil derailed July 6 in ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
People attend Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire at a church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec province July 7, 2013. Now scores of people -- perhaps as many as 80 -- are missing. Rescuers cautiously entered the charred debris Sunday, more than 24 hours after the spectacular crash that saw flames shoot into the sky and burn into the night. The accident and resulting huge fireball forced 2,000 people from their homes. Witnesses reported up to six explosions after the train derailed at about 1:20 am (0520 GMT Saturday) in Lac-Megantic. Four bodies were found Sunday morning, bringing the official death toll from the disaster to five. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
People attend Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire at a church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
People attend Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire at a church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec province July 7, 2013. Now scores of people -- perhaps as many as 80 -- are missing. Rescuers cautiously entered the charred debris Sunday, more than 24 hours after the spectacular crash that saw flames shoot into the sky and burn into the night. The accident and resulting huge fireball forced 2,000 people from their homes. Witnesses reported up to six explosions after the train derailed at about 1:20 am (0520 GMT Saturday) in Lac-Megantic. Four bodies were found Sunday morning, bringing the official death toll from the disaster to five. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
People attend Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire at a church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
The church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec province, where people attended Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire July 7, 2013. Now scores of people -- perhaps as many as 80 -- are missing. Rescuers cautiously entered the charred debris Sunday, more than 24 hours after the spectacular crash that saw flames shoot into the sky and burn into the night. The accident and resulting huge fireball forced 2,000 people from their homes. Witnesses reported up to six explosions after the train derailed at about 1:20 am (0520 GMT Saturday) in Lac-Megantic. Four bodies were found Sunday morning, bringing the official death toll from the disaster to five. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
The church in the village of Sainte-Cécile-de-Whitton, a few kilometres from Lac-Megantic in Canada's Quebec province, where people attended Mass to pray for the victims of a train derailment and subsequent ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Relief operations continue July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Relief operations continue July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Relief operations continue July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Relief operations continue July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (background/center-left) addresses a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (background/center-left) addresses a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
A woman speaks on a mobile phone in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
A woman speaks on a mobile phone in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Families embrace in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Families embrace in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
People watch relief operations on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (L) addresses a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (L) addresses a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper greets families following a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper greets families following a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper greets families following a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper greets families following a press conference in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Families embrace in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Families embrace in the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Families wait outside the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies of victims have been recovered in Quebec from the catastrophic derailment of an oil-laden cargo train, but 40 people are missing and the toll is expected to rise, Canadian officials said. AFP PHOTO / François Laplante-DelagraveFrançois Laplante-Delagrave/AFP/Getty Images less
Families wait outside the emergency camp set up at Lac-Mégantic high school on July 7, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, one day after a train derailment and subsequent explosion and fire. Five bodies ... more
Photo: AFP/Getty Images
Searchers dig through the rubble for victims of the inferno in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Monday, July 8, 2013, as firefighter continue to hose down tanker cars to prevent explosions. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday. (AP Photo/ THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Searchers dig through the rubble for victims of the inferno in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Monday, July 8, 2013, as firefighter continue to hose down tanker cars to prevent explosions. A runaway train derailed ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Searchers dig through the rubble for victims of the inferno in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Monday, July 8, 2013, as firefighter continue to hose down tanker cars to prevent explosions. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday. (AP Photo/ THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Searchers dig through the rubble for victims of the inferno in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Monday, July 8, 2013, as firefighter continue to hose down tanker cars to prevent explosions. A runaway train derailed ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Canadian Prime Minister Harper, right, surveys the scene Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, as firefighters continue to spray derailed tanker cars. A runaway train derailed Saturday causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil and destroyed part of the downtown area of Lac Megantic. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS, Paul Chiasson) less
Canadian Prime Minister Harper, right, surveys the scene Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, as firefighters continue to spray derailed tanker cars. A runaway train derailed Saturday causing ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Prime Minister Harper, center, talks with firefighters Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday exploding tanker cars carrying crude oil and destroying part of the downtown area of Lac Megantic. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS, Paul Chiasson) less
Prime Minister Harper, center, talks with firefighters Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday exploding tanker cars carrying crude oil and destroying part of the ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The derailment Saturday caused explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The derailment ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt out tanker cars and the smouldering remains of businesses in downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013. A runaway train Saturday derailed, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
Burnt out tanker cars and the smouldering remains of businesses in downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013. A runaway train Saturday derailed, igniting explosions and fires that ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The remains of tanker cars lie burnt out in the downtown core Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil and devastated the town. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The remains of tanker cars lie burnt out in the downtown core Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil and devastated the ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt out oil tank cars and the destroyed downtown core lays in ruins as firefighters continue to water smouldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil on Saturday. (AP Photo/ THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
Burnt out oil tank cars and the destroyed downtown core lays in ruins as firefighters continue to water smouldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed igniting ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The runaway train derailed, causing explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013, in Lac Megantic, Quebec, after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. The runaway ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS,Ryan Remiorz) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. A runaway train derailed Saturday igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed in eastern Quebec, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed a town's downtown center. The confirmed death toll is now three, and is expected to rise further. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson less
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a ... more
Photo: Associated Press
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. More bodies were recovered Sunday in the devastated town of Lac Megantic, raising the death toll to at least five after a runaway train derailed, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed the downtown district. With dozens of people reported missing, authorities feared they could find more bodies once they reached the hardest-hit areas. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
The downtown core lays in ruins as fire fighters continue to water smoldering rubble Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec after a train derailed ignited tanker cars carrying crude oil. More bodies were ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed in eastern Quebec, igniting explosions and fires that destroyed a town's downtown center. The confirmed death toll is now three, and is expected to rise further. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson less
Burnt buildings are seen following a train derailment causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Sunday, July 7, 2013 in Lac Megantic, Quebec. Two more bodies were discovered overnight after a ... more
Photo: Associated Press
Damage in the downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013, the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson)
Damage in the downtown of Lac Megantic, Quebec is seen Sunday, July 7, 2013, the day after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson)
Photo: Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early ... more
Photo: Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows wrecked oil tankers and debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows wrecked oil tankers and debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: Associated Press
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/ The Canadian Press, Paul Chiasson) less
This aerial photo, workers comb through the debris after a train derailed causing explosions of railway cars carrying crude oil Tuesday, July 9, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada on Tuesday July 9, 2013. ... more
Photo: Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, shows debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early ... more
Photo: Associated Press
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars carrying crude oil early Saturday, July 6. At least thirteen people were confirmed dead and nearly 40 others were still missing in a catastrophe that raised questions about the safety of transporting oil by rail instead of pipeline. (AP Photo/Surete du Quebec, The Canadian Press) less
This photo provided by Surete du Quebec, emergency personnel look over the debris from a runaway train on Monday, July 8, 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada. A runaway train derailed igniting tanker cars ... more
Photo: Associated Press
