After nearly a week of burning, a massive fire on the cargo ship Genius Star XI has finally been extinguished, the U.S. Coast Guard announced on Saturday. The ship has been directed to anchor near Dutch Harbor, Alaska, and all 19 crew members are reported to be uninjured. The Salvage and Marine Firefighting team is still onboard to ensure that the fire does not reignite.
The ship was carrying lithium-ion batteries from Vietnam to San Diego when the crew discovered the fire in hold No. 1. They quickly pumped carbon dioxide into the hold and sealed it to prevent an explosion. The crew then alerted the Coast Guard, who diverted the ship to Dutch Harbor.
Upon arrival at Dutch Harbor, the ship was kept 2 miles from shore to minimize the risks of toxic gases to the community and environment. The Coast Guard, along with the Salvage and Marine Firefighting team, worked diligently to put out the flames.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and an investigation will begin once the response efforts are completed. There have been no reports of oil leaks associated with the fire, according to the ship’s owners, Wisdom Marine Group.
The incident highlights the potential dangers of transporting lithium-ion batteries, which are known to be prone to fires. The safe handling and transportation of these batteries are crucial to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Coast Guard’s swift response and the crew’s quick actions in containing the fire prevented any injuries and further damage. The ship has been anchored in a protected area to ensure stability and minimize the risk of a re-flash.
The Genius Star XI incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety protocols and the need for continued vigilance in the transportation of hazardous materials. The authorities involved will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to prevent any potential risks to the community and environment.
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