NTSB reports of an engine room fire aboard a towing vessel.
Incident Overview
On January 30, 2024, around 3:30 a.m. CST, a fire erupted in the engine room of the towing vessel while pushing four loaded barges near Grand Rivers, Kentucky, on the Tennessee River. The crew of six detected smoke and flames near the port main engine, attempted to fight the blaze with extinguishers, but were ultimately forced to abandon ship. A Good Samaritan vessel rescued all crew members. There were no injuries or environmental damage, but the vessel suffered $3 million in damage.
Cause
The fire originated in the port main engine area. Investigators determined the likely cause was a mechanical failure that led to the ignition of nearby combustible materials. The rapid spread of the fire was worsened by inadequate onboard fire suppression capabilities and engine room design that allowed flames to propagate quickly.
Lessons Learned
- Early Detection Is Critical: Routine engine room checks were being conducted, but the fire still developed rapidly—highlighting the need for improved fire detection systems.
- Fire Suppression Must Be Effective: Portable extinguishers proved insufficient. Integrated suppression systems (e.g., fixed CO₂ or water mist) could have helped contain the fire sooner.
- Crew Preparedness Saves Lives: The crew’s adherence to emergency procedures and swift evacuation likely prevented injuries.
- Design and Maintenance Matter: Regular inspection of mechanical systems and reducing combustible materials near heat sources are essential to fire prevention.
This incident underscores the importance of robust fire safety infrastructure and training aboard towing vessels, particularly in engine room spaces.
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Source: NTSB
