Are you equipped to deal with a fire on a ship?
BY Steve Brand | Monday, March 24, 2025 | Courses, News
Fire Safety Preparation
Fire at sea is one of the most dangerous emergencies a seafarer can face. Unlike on land, there is no fire brigade to call, and the crew must rely on their training, equipment, and teamwork to control and extinguish the blaze.
The question is: are you prepared to handle a fire on a ship?
The Importance of Fire Safety Training
Fire prevention and firefighting skills are essential for all seafarers, regardless of rank or role.
In the UK, maritime training academies offer courses such as the STCW Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting and the Proficiency in Fire and Personal Survival Techniques (PST).
Both courses help ensure that seafarers gain the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to deal with fire-related emergencies effectively.
These courses, aligned with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), cover crucial aspects of fire safety, from understanding fire behaviour to mastering firefighting techniques.
If you work at sea or are considering a maritime career, completing these courses is not just a requirement. It could save lives.
Common Causes of Ship Fires
Understanding the causes of shipboard fires is the first step in preventing them. The most common sources of fire on a vessel include:
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Electrical faults – Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and damaged equipment can spark fires in confined spaces.
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Galley fires – Cooking equipment, oil spills, and gas leaks in the ship’s kitchen pose a significant fire risk.
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Flammable cargo or fuels – Tankers carrying oil or chemical cargoes must adhere to strict fire safety measures.
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Human error – Careless smoking, improper storage of flammable materials, and lack of awareness can lead to devastating fires.
Essential Firefighting Skills for Seafarers
Fire safety training equips seafarers with practical skills to prevent, contain, and extinguish fires. Some key areas covered in STCW courses include:
1. Fire Prevention
Understanding fire risks and implementing safety measures, such as proper storage of hazardous materials and regular maintenance of electrical systems, reduces the likelihood of onboard fires.
2. Firefighting Equipment
Seafarers are trained to use various firefighting equipment, including:
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Fire extinguishers (CO2, foam, dry powder, and water types)
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Fire hoses and hydrants
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Breathing apparatus for tackling fires in smoke-filled environments
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Fire blankets and emergency escape hoods
3. Emergency Response Procedures
Quick and efficient action is critical during a fire emergency. Training includes:
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Raising the alarm and mustering crew members
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Using fire control plans to locate hazards and emergency exits
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Coordinating fire containment strategies to prevent spread
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Communicating with other crew members and emergency responders
4. Practical Firefighting Drills
Hands-on exercises allow seafarers to experience realistic fire scenarios in controlled conditions. These drills build confidence and ensure that crew members can act swiftly and effectively in an emergency.
Is Your Training Up to Date?
Maritime regulations require that fire safety training is regularly refreshed to ensure that skills remain sharp and up to date with the latest safety standards.
If you have already completed your STCW Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting course, you may need to take a refresher course to maintain certification.
Final Thoughts
Fire prevention and firefighting skills are vital for anyone working at sea. Enrolling in an accredited STCW course at a UK maritime training academy ensures that you are fully equipped to handle fire-related emergencies on board.
Whether you're an aspiring seafarer or a seasoned professional, ongoing training and awareness can make all the difference when facing the unexpected at sea.
Are you ready to take your fire safety skills to the next level? Check with your maritime training provider to find out more about available STCW courses and refresher training today.
Our Training Courses
Seahaven Maritime Academy, based at The Port of Newhaven in East Sussex, is the ideal place for training for a career at sea. The links below will provide you with more detail:-
Click here for our STCW Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting.
Click here for our STCW Refresher Package - Updated Proficiency in Fire and PST.
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