The 63 meter long inland container ship Martie caught fire while berthed in Waalwijk, Netherlands. The fire started in the living quarters spewing out dense smoke. The local fire brigade were alerted and dispatched teams to fight the fire. Reports state the fire had engulfed the living spaces resulting in significant damage. No reports of injuries. Only empty containers were on board the Martie so no risks of hazardous cargo air pollution released. No further details released.
On February 3, the 99 meter long cargo vessel Shun An Lun caught fire off Zhoushan, China while en route to Fuzhou from Shanghai. The fire started in the engine room and quickly spread through the vessel’s superstructure. The crew was able to request for assistance before escaping the blaze by escaping to the forecastle. The 11 crew waited in the forecastle until search and rescue vessels arrived a short time later. No reports of injuries.
Authorities were able to contain the blaze by the next day. Reports state the vessel will be towed back to a nearby port.
On January 24, the 42 meter long towboat George King caught fire on the Mississippi River near Vicksburg, Mississippi. The fire started in the vessel’s engine room and quickly engulfed the superstructure. The nine crew on board were able escape the flames by climbing onto the barges being pushed by the George King. The 168 foot long towboat Michael Reeves came to their assistance and pushed the George King ashore onto the river bank. No reports of injuries.
The Coast Guard along with other local and state authorities arrived on scene a short time later. River traffic was restricted while authorities extinguished the blaze. A boom and absorbent pads were placed around the George King to contain any pollution. Reports state there was 65,000 gallons of diesel fuel on board the George King.
The fire had gutted most the towboat’s superstructure and no reports if the George King will be salvaged or scrapped.