A fire broke out on the decommissioned state ferry Malaspina in Ward Cove on Tuesday night. North Tongass Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jerry Kiffer says the fire was reported at about 7:30 p.m., and when firefighters arrived there were no visible flames or smoke.
“We made contact with the owner of the vessel. He indicated there was a fire on deck one that had a storage area that had toiletries and cleaning supplies. It was located in an area that was fairly remote from the cabins, and was confined just to that particular room.”
Kiffer says the fire had been quickly contained by those onboard. The Malaspina is being used as a bunkhouse for workers in Ward Cove. Kiffer says when the fire was discovered by crew, they attempted to put it out with hand-held fire extinguishers but were unsuccessful. They then used a hose from one of the Malaspina’s fire stations to tamp the down the fire.
“Our crew came in and finished extinguishment, completed overhaul and ventilated the ship.”
Kiffer says there was smoke in the aft part of the ship and to be safe, several people onboard were evaluated. No injuries were reported. Kiffer commended those on board for their quick response when the fire alarms sounded.
“Because the crew was onboard, because the crew acted quickly, they were able to knock that fire down to a point where it was safe for our crew to make entry onto the ship. So kudos to them. They did a pretty decent job.”
Kiffer says fire department personnel wrapped up a little after 9:00 p.m. Tuesday night. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
