Firefighting at Sea: A Comprehensive Guide

Fire is one of the most serious emergencies that can occur at sea. With limited resources and no immediate access to shore-based fire services, ship crews must be prepared to handle fires effectively. This guide covers essential firefighting knowledge for all seafarers.

Understanding Fire

The Fire Triangle

Fire requires three elements:

• Fuel: Any combustible material
• Oxygen: Present in air (approximately 21%)
• Heat: Sufficient temperature to ignite fuel

Removing any one element extinguishes the fire.

Fire Classes

Different fire types require different extinguishing methods:

Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, fabric)

• Extinguish with: Water, foam, dry chemical

Class B: Flammable liquids (oil, fuel, paint)

• Extinguish with: Foam, dry chemical, CO2

Class C: Electrical fires

• Extinguish with: CO2, dry chemical (non-conductive)

Class D: Combustible metals

• Extinguish with: Special dry powder

Fire Prevention

Prevention is always better than fighting fires:

Common Fire Hazards

• Electrical faults and overloads
• Hot work (welding, cutting)
• Smoking in unauthorized areas
• Improper storage of flammable materials
• Poor housekeeping

Prevention Measures

1. Regular maintenance of electrical systems

2. Proper hot work procedures and permits

3. Designated smoking areas with proper disposal

4. Correct storage of flammable materials

5. Good housekeeping practices

Fire Detection Systems

Types of Detectors

• Smoke detectors: Detect particles in air
• Heat detectors: Respond to temperature rise
• Flame detectors: Detect infrared/ultraviolet radiation
• Gas detectors: Detect flammable gases

Alarm Systems

• Automatic alarm activation
• Manual call points throughout the vessel
• Bridge and engine room control panels
• Crew alerting systems

Firefighting Equipment

Portable Fire Extinguishers

• Water: Class A fires only
• Foam: Class A and B fires
• Dry Chemical: Class A, B, and C fires
• CO2: Class B and C fires
• Wet Chemical: Class A and cooking oil fires

Fixed Firefighting Systems

• Sprinkler systems: Automatic water discharge
• Water spray systems: High-pressure water
• Foam systems: For flammable liquid fires
• CO2 systems: For engine rooms and cargo spaces
• Dry chemical systems: For specific hazards

Firefighting Procedures

Initial Response

1. Raise the alarm immediately

2. Alert the bridge and engine room

3. Assess the situation safely

4. Evacuate if necessary

5. Attack the fire if safe to do so

Firefighting Techniques

• Direct attack: Apply extinguishing agent directly to fire
• Indirect attack: Cool surrounding areas first
• Ventilation control: Close doors, hatches, and vents
• Boundary cooling: Cool adjacent spaces

Safety Considerations

• Always work in pairs
• Maintain escape routes
• Use appropriate PPE
• Monitor for flashover and backdraft
• Communicate constantly

Emergency Procedures

Fire in Engine Room

• Activate fixed firefighting system
• Secure fuel and ventilation
• Evacuate personnel
• Monitor from safe location

Fire in Accommodation

• Evacuate affected areas
• Use portable extinguishers
• Close fire doors
• Prepare for abandon ship if necessary

Fire in Cargo Spaces

• Identify cargo type
• Use appropriate extinguishing method
• Consider cargo compatibility
• Monitor for re-ignition

Training and Drills

Regular training is essential:

• Monthly fire drills
• Equipment familiarization
• Emergency procedure practice
• Scenario-based exercises

Conclusion

Effective firefighting at sea requires knowledge, preparation, and regular practice. Understanding fire behavior, prevention measures, and proper use of equipment can save lives and vessels. Every crew member must be trained and ready to respond to fire emergencies.