Rescue Report Describes North Sea Car Carrier Fire as “Confused and Chaotic”

A report on the rescue operation to remove the crew from the burning car carrier Fremantle Highway off the Dutch coast has been highly critical of the efforts, according to a Dutch newspaper. The analysis, based on interviews with all organizations involved, confirms earlier reports that responders were ill-prepared, slow to reach the ship, and disorganized in their efforts. The fire rendered the ship’s lifesaving equipment inoperable, and 16 crewmembers were saved by helicopters, with one crewmember dying from injuries sustained during a jump into the ocean.

The report partially dispels accusations of a slow response, indicating that the first call from the vessel suggested the fire was under control and that assistance was not required. However, the analysis shows that initial wrong assessments delayed the rescue helicopters, and there were further errors in directing the rescued crewmembers to the appropriate medical facilities. The report aims to improve future cooperation and coordination, while the Dutch Safety Board continues its investigation into the fire.

The fire burned for days, destroying over 2,000 vehicles and several decks before the hulk was towed into the Dutch port of Eemshaven for salvage. The report highlights the need for improvements in future rescue operations and coordination, while the investigation into the fire continues.

Source .