Regardless of how sophisticated a ship's navigation, operational or automated systems are, these protocols are of little assistance if the crew and in particular the ship’s officers are not trained to respond in an emergency situation.

Marine firefighting or tackling ship fires requires a comprehensive and systematic approach in many areas of emergency preparedness.

Fire safety on ships is dependant on key personnel including the chain of command and support teams which consolidate to form one working group capable of fire risk assessment, fire prevention, marine firefighting and casualty handling.

This could mean the difference between a potential ship fire catastrophe or saving human life and even the vessel itself. 

The real killer is smoke; silent and deadly, presenting itself in the form of a poisonous cloud of toxic gases. This lethal assassin can kill before you are even aware of its presence and many people die in their sleep before a raging fire begins to take control.

Simulating a ship fire is unrealistic as the Captain cannot order the start of a real blaze, risking life and damage to the vessel.

There are two main factors to consider; the first of which is without doubt the safety and protection of the crew and the vessel.

The second is the ability to perform emergency preparedness fire fighting skills in the event of a port state inspection, in whatever country the vessel is located.

If these two elements are not addressed, the penalties could be severe in both human and financial loss.

Port state authorities are becoming increasingly vigilant and stringent in their analysis of vessels and this can evolve into a dire situation for the ship’s crew and ultimately the shipping company.

Consider these factors that will quickly arise when a vessel finds itself suddenly detained (arrested at port); extra berthing fees, re-berthing fees, loss of charter or contract equating to a huge loss of revenue which can potentially rise into many thousands of dollars.

Health & Safety regulations are in constant flux and Fire-Aid International will ensure your vessel conforms to the very latest legislation required by the international governing body.

This will be consolidated with safer strategies and upgraded equipment to fully optimise the ship's fire fighting capabilities.

This is performed ONBOARD the ship at a designated time and place and can therefore be easily integrated within the ship's schedules. Our training programmes are designed to provide optimum results with the least incapacity resulting in a highly cost effective exercise for all concerned.

Fire-Aid International has the infrastructure in place to ensure the integrity of international marine fire training and safety onboard vessels worldwide.