Recently, the U.S. Coast Guard had to rescue a crewmember from a boat near the Texas coast after he reportedly suffered from smoke inhalation.
According to Professional Mariner, the Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston received a call on August 20 from the crew of the 50-foot towing vessel Kennedy Grace, which was towing the motor vessel Miss Geri, which caught fire. A crewmember aboard the vessel that was being towed reportedly suffered smoke inhalation and had chest pains following the fire.
After the Coast Guard sent a rescue boat out to secure the man, he was transported to a local hospital in Galveston for treatment. The other crewmembers aboard the Miss Geri were able to abandon the vessel and board the larger Kennedy Grace after the incident.
Local fireboat crews had to respond to the incident to assist in putting out the fire aboard the vessel. It remains unclear how the fire started, and the incident remains under investigation.
What Caused the Maritime Smoke and Fire Incident?
Fire incidents aboard boats are not uncommon. They can occur for a number of reasons, including engine and boiler room accidents, flammable cargo and corrosive chemicals. For crewmembers aboard vessels, smoke and fire incidents can be quite alarming, as there is limited space and room for movement.
This is why some fires aboard vessels result in serious injuries like smoke inhalation and severe burns. Keep in mind, smoke inhalation in particular can result in burned particles being deposited in a victim’s lungs and trachea. This can have long-term ramifications, resulting in lung and organ damage.
If you have been harmed in a fire aboard a vessel, have the incident investigated by our nationwide maritime injury attorneys. We have a history of success helping fire victims from maritime accidents obtain compensation for their injuries.
You can contact us at the number located on this page or fill out the request form.
Latti Associates LLC – Nationwide Maritime Attorneys