On September 15, the fishing vessel INDAPV5MM 495 caught fire in the Bay of Bengal off the coast of Visakhapatnam, India. The fire started from a mechanical fault and quickly engulfed the vessel. The five crew on board were forced to abandon ship into the sea. The vessel INDAPV5MM 894 was nearby and was able to rescue all five crew. No reports of injuries and all the crew was taken to shore safely. Reports state the fishing vessel was a total loss.
On September 12, the 66 meter long, 2018 dwt offshore supply vessel AM Pride (IMO: 9359167) caught fire some 48 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay, South Africa. The fire started in the vessel’s galley and quickly got out of control. The vessel contacted its owner who relayed the distress call to the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). Authorities broadcasted an alert to nearby vessel to assist the AM Pride.
Before any vessel’s arrived on scene to assist the AM Pride, the crew of the offshore vessel abandoned ship into life rafts. The vessel’s owner dispatched a helicopter to the scene and were able to rescue all 15 crew members. Reports state there were strong winds and high swells that made the rescue effort difficult, but no reports of injuries.
Authorities report the AM Pride will be taken under tow by a tug to a secure location. No details reported on extent of damage of the fire and if any pollution had been released.
On September 11, the 40 foot long fishing vessel Randy and Stephanie caught fire in Yarmouth harbour in Nova Scotia, Canada. The fire started in the vessel’s stack where it exits through the wheelhouse. The Randy and Stephanie was taken under tow to a nearby wharf where it was met by Canadian Coast Guard, fire fighters and local authorities. Due to the low tide, the fire fighters had to use portable extinguishers before a hose could be pulled down to put out the blaze. The one crew on board the Randy and Stephanie was evaluated for injuries. No details reported to the extent of damage caused by the fire.
