The UK coast guard has been actively involved in coordinating a fire incident onboard a car carrier since early morning in the English Channel.
What happened?
UK Coastguard was notified of a fire on board the US car carrier ‘Honor’ in the English Channel while it was on route to Baltimore from Southampton.
The vessel’s fixed fire fighting systems was used to control the fire and the cargo space had been sealed.
The ship’s crew have been continuously monitoring the cargo area to prevent major damage. The ship has full manoeuvrability and was turned back towards Southampton, where it has planned to anchor to the South East of the Isle of Wight.
Intense monitoring:
UK Coastguard is monitoring the situation closely and the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has been notified of the incident.
A Fire and Rescue Marine Response team is to be airlifted on board the vessel by the UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Lee on Solent to further investigate the fire damages and determine whether or not it is safe for the vessel to return to Southampton Port.
In addition, a pilot from Southampton Port and a MCA Marine Casualty Officer will be sent to the vessel to assist the assessment process prior to the vessel being allowed to return to Southampton.
Crew members safe:
Andy Jenkins, Commander for the UK Coastguard said: ‘The 21 crew are still on board the vessel and they are safe and well. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as it develops.’
Footage shows the UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Lee-on-Solent transfer the assessment teams from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, ABP Southampton – Port of Southampton and the MCA to the casualty vessel ‘Honor’.
Following assessment team reports, the vessel is now alongside at Southampton Port where she will remain over the weekend in a stable condition.
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Source: Official Coastguard
