On December 5, an unexpected fire started inside the engine room of the Canadian-flagged Handy bulker Tecumseh, while was sailing near Zug Island on the United States’ side of the Detroit River. The ship eventually drifted into Canadian waters as for the time being is anchored by Windsor, Ontario.
In light of the situation, the U.S. Coast Guard immediately acted by sending the Coast Guard Cutter Bristol Bay to the scene to take control of the fire situation.
With the aid of Coast Guard Station Belle Isle’s 45-foot response boat – medium and a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station Detroit, the emergency team made every effort to assess the situation. Although the bulk carrier eventually drifted into Canadian waters.
“A contracted firefighting team boarded and extinguished the fire overnight after all 16 crew members were safely disembarked and evaluated by local EMS” the coast guard noted. Thankfully, there were no injuries, pollution or any additional impacts reported.
Moreover, the USCG collaborated with the Canadian Coast Guard, Transport Canada and Windsor Harbor Master in order to investigate the causes that started the fire and ensure the environment is protected until the vessel is fully repaired.
Overall, engine room fires are a common phenomenon and their consequences can be severe. The Swedish Club previous this year, published its report focusing on how to prevent engine room fires.
