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Month: February 2011

Explosion on the Lautaro

Explosion on the Lautaro

The fishing vessel Lautaro exploded into flames while docked in the harbor in Manta, Equador.   The vessel was loaded with 60,000 gallons of diesel and 1,200 gallons of gasoline and was preparing to sail to fish for tuna.  The fire and explosion was in the engine room.  Sparks from a welding torch fell onto a canister of acetylene.    Firefighters were called in and were able to bring the fire under control.  Seven men, crew and firefighters, suffered injuries fighting the blaze.  Reports state the fire destroyed much of the superstructure of the vessel.

Asleep on the Rhine

Asleep on the Rhine

The self-propelled barges 1949 dwt Alsace and 1250 dwt Hollande went aground on the Rhine nearKarlsruhe, Germany.   Loaded with 109 containers, the two vessels  ran over two groynes before going hard aground.  The cause of the accident was that the master of the vessel had fallen asleep at the wheel.   Part of the cargo was damaged estimated at 100.000 (100,000) €.   Salvage attempts have started.

Dintelborg Disabled by Fire

Dintelborg Disabled by Fire

The 8867 dwt freighter Dintelborg became disabled off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts after a fire on the bridge.   The small fire was extinguished by the crew, but left the vessel without power and no communications.   The vessel was adrift in 16-foot seas and 20 knot winds.  A  Coast Guard jayhawk helicopter was dispatched and was able to communicate with the vessel who were using a hand-held radio.  The tug Rown Mcallister was sent to get the Dintelborg under tow to Providence, Rhode Island for repairs.   No reports of injuries or pollution being released.  The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the fire.

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