II-K-09 Marine Firefighting 01/30/2019

The first step in responding to a ship fire is to establish a command structure according to the Incident Command System (ICS), as outlined in Policy and Procedure III-E-26.

The initial radio report should include critical details about the fire, such as its location, status (working or not), and whether any crew members have been evacuated.

Staging units in Level 1 staging ensures they are ready to be deployed quickly for the initial assignment.

A comprehensive ship size-up involves gathering key information about the vessel, including its type, size, where the fire is located, and any available ship plans.

Questioning the ship crew helps gather crucial information, such as the exact fire location, the type of fire, the crew's status, whether onboard suppression systems were used, and what firefighting actions were already taken.

Updating the scene size-up regularly and notifying the USCG for waterway security are essential actions to ensure a safe and organized response.

Having at least two access methods to the ship is crucial for firefighter safety and efficient operations. This can include a strong gangway and/or 24-foot extension ladders.

A 3-inch water supply line with a gated wye provides a reliable source of water for the initial firefighting efforts.

Stretching two 100-foot 1¾” hand lines, one primary and one backup, provides flexibility and redundancy for initial firefighting operations.

Consider installing a 5-inch supply line for later arriving units and assess conditions for cooling down hot surfaces.

Monitoring the ship's listing and draft every 30 minutes is crucial to determine potential instability and potential dewatering needs.

Notifying the Miami-Dade County RER Department and HazMat Bureau about any fuel spills is essential for environmental protection and response.

Forming a water rescue group early in the incident minimizes the risk of casualties and ensures swift response in water emergencies.

Minimizing firefighting personnel for below-deck operations is crucial to avoid overcrowding and improve safety in confined spaces.

Cooling or removing pressurized gas cylinders and flammable tanks safely is critical to prevent explosions or fire spread.

Early consideration for second alarms, based on the size of the ship, ensures tactical reserves are available for a potential escalation.

Being mindful of mooring lines, avoiding ground ladders placed over them, and avoiding cargo holds covered by tarpaulins are crucial aspects of preventing accidents.

Shutting off fuel and electrical supply to the fire compartment is the first step in controlling the fire.

Indirect attacks using fog patterns through exterior openings can help control the fire without risking firefighter safety in the engine room.

Using thermal imaging cameras (TICs) during engine room fires helps firefighters locate the fire and assess its severity.

Foam operations, involving cooling surfaces and using AFFF effectively, are critical for extinguishing engine room fires

Assess access points based on ship plans and understand common cabin arrangements to navigate effectively.

Check potential fire extension in six directions around the fire area to ensure a comprehensive fire attack.

Review access layout using ship plans and cargo manifests to gain a thorough understanding of the fire area.

Open main hatches for ventilation and checking for fire extension before attempting to directly access the fire.

Be aware of the presence of large combustible materials and consider the use of foam for firefighting efforts.

Remain aware of the potential for fire extension to nearby backup generators and their fuel tanks.