Date: June 22, 2025
An oil tanker anchored off Singapore’s eastern coast caught fire on the morning of June 20, prompting a rapid response from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Approximately 40 firefighters were deployed to manage the situation, ensuring the safety of all crew members aboard.
Incident Overview
The SCDF received an alert about the fire at around 8:10 AM. Upon arrival, marine rescue teams observed thick black smoke billowing from a storeroom on the vessel. In response, three SCDF marine rescue vessels were dispatched, and firefighters from Brani and West Coast Marine Fire Stations quickly mobilized to contain the blaze.
Firefighting Strategy
The SCDF employed a two-pronged strategy to extinguish the fire effectively. One team utilized a water monitor from a marine vessel to perform boundary cooling, which involved spraying water on the exterior of the tanker to lower the temperature and prevent the fire from spreading. Simultaneously, another group of firefighters boarded the vessel, navigating through the smoke and heat to locate the source of the fire and extinguish it using water jets.
Outcome and Community Response
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and all crew members were accounted for. The SCDF’s swift and brave response has garnered praise from the public, with many netizens expressing their gratitude and admiration for the firefighters’ efforts on social media.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are currently underway, as authorities work to determine the circumstances that led to this incident.
Conclusion
The successful containment of the fire on the oil tanker highlights the effectiveness of the SCDF’s emergency response protocols. As investigations continue, the community remains thankful for the dedication and bravery of the firefighters who worked tirelessly to ensure safety during this incident.