Role of the Fire Service During Shipboard Fires

The Unified Command System

Role of the Fire Service

• Perform size-up, including obtaining information regarding actions taken, effectiveness of the actions, and further intentions

• Ensure effective implementation of the the Unified Command

• Provide personnel specially trained in fire suppression

• Mobilize resources, provide logistical support• Conduct pre-incident surveys, pre-fire plans,

hazard assessments

Merchant Vessel Organization

Ship’s Master

• Overall responsibility for safety of crew, vessel and its cargo

• Chief representative of ship’s owner

• Key point of contact during any incident

• May accept or deny your offer of assistance

• May delegate duties to subordinates

Merchant Vessel Organization

Chief Engineer

• Responsible for organization of Engineering Staff, and coordinating all operation, maintenance and repair of machinery from stem to stern

• Chief and staff will have high level of knowledge of machinery space layout, all ship systems, operation and control of all fire suppression and detection systems, and HVAC

Merchant Vessel Organization

Chief Mate

• In charge of ship’s stability, trim, safety, cargo and ballast operations

• Key asset for suppression operations – particularly de-watering, ships stability and trim, cargo arrangements and systems, types of cargo on board, load plans, documentation

Merchant Vessel Organization

Merchant Vessel Crew

• Assigned to ship for extended periods (several months to a year)

• Knowledgeable about vessel’s layout and systems (usually)

• Most will have had some level of marine fire fighting training (STCW – every 5ys.)

Merchant Vessel Crew

• Various nationalities and languages possible

• Enthusiasm regarding fire suppression operations may vary