Whether the fire occurs on an oil platform, on a fishing vessel, or on a cruise ship, a fire at sea can have disastrous consequences. Because fuels, hot equipment and other hazardous materials are present aboard these vessels, fires are a daily risk and can spread quickly. When a vessel is far from shore, it may take time for help to arrive. It is important that all vessels be equipped with fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets. All crew members should have training in fire safety, the use of fire safety equipment, and proper evacuation procedures in case of a vessel fire. Every crew member should know about possible fire hazards onboard.
There are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of fire at sea.
• Keep the vessel clean and tidy • Always keep working areas neat. • Do not allow flammable waste to accumulate • Always keep fire doors closed to restrict the spread of flames and smoke • Avoid keeping any inflammable material on board • Keep bilges, drip trays, and galley stove clean of oil/grease • Keep all heat source areas clear • Store paint/varnish ashore (if possible) • Check all appliances off when not in use • Check that all feed pipes and joints are sound • Take great care when using oxyacetylene or other equipment which might ignite flammable materials • Keep all naked flames under control • Ensure all electrical equipment approved for marine use • Regularly check engine room, keep components clean • Always turn everything off before refueling • Take great care when pumping oil to ready use tanks - avoid spillage or overflow which could lead to fire • Maintain fire safety equipment – fire extinguishers/blankets, warning devices • Put out all cigarettes completely • Comply with no smoking area signs at all times
On most vessels, it is the skipper's responsibility to learn about how to prevent fires on board and ensure that all fire safety equipment is in good working order. Failure to do so may be negligence under maritime law and injured workers may have the right to file a Jones Act claim.
