Inquiry opened into container ship fire

An inquiry has been launched into a fire that broke out on a container ship berthed at the Port of Tauranga. File photo.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into the fire on board the Hong Kong-registered cargo ship Kokopo Chief, berthed at the Port of Tauranga.

TAIC is deploying two investigators to the scene who are expected to arrive late this afternoon.

The circumstances reported are that smoke was seen coming from a hold at about midnight, and the ship's crew activated the fire extinguishers and advised emergency services.

The main cargo on the ship is understood to be dressed timber. Deck containers with dangerous goods were removed.

There are no reported injuries. Emergency services should be consulted on the current state of the fire.

The Commission's inquiry will seek to explain the circumstances and causes of the accident, with a view to helping prevent similar accidents in the future.

The Commission is unable to confirm further details of the event while the emergency response continues.

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1 comment

Fire inquiry?

Posted on 24-09-2017 16:11 | By MISS ADVENTURE

Oh well that will be difficult ... the obvious answer is to follow the smoke. But as the fire has been put out that then becomes somewhat of a challenge afterwards. What remains by teh sounds of it is a load of "smoked" timber, perhaps charred in places. recommendation look for the lowest point of "charred" the evidence you want "was" there.


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