We hope you didn't think the new cap BP is using to try to stop the oil gush would be a quick fix. Before the cap can be tested, engineers are examining the damage to the original well. Once that is over, the cap's valves can be closed and tested against the pressure of the gush.

• The new cap, which is theoretically capable of diverting 100% of the oil to the surface of the water and waiting ships, was installed quickly.
• Oil flowed freely into the water in the time between when the last cap was removed and the new one was set in place. Oil continues to flow as testing of the new cap's valves has been postponed.
• Before the valves are closed and the oil begins to be diverted for real, BP and its team are checking to see if the well has sustained more damage than they previously thought.
• If tests show that the well can withstand the pressure, the cap's valves will be closed for good. If the test shows the cap is no good, it's back to the drawing board.

Keep your fingers crossed and hope for some serious cap-strength.

What can you do?

Read what our favorite old person, Nancy, has to say about who should be leading relief efforts in the gulf and weigh in. Check out the organizations she mentions and get involved.