When fire broke out on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last month, the nearly 600 passengers were understandably worried. The fire, which was ultimately contained and put out, disabled the ship off the coast of Malaysia. The Azamara’s passengers and nearly 450 crew members drifted 200 miles off course with only backup power before eventually finding the nearest port. No passengers were hurt, but five crew members suffered smoke inhalation.
Since November 2010, there have been three major cruise ship fires. One earlier this year left 4,500 people without power, hot water or hot food for four days until rescuers arrived. Fire-related accidents on cruise ships are not terribly common, but even occasional fires can present a serious threat. The Cruise Lines International Association represents 23 major cruise lines, and offered some information about how cruise lines prepare for fire emergencies while at sea:
- Each ocean liner is equipped with 3-5 firefighting teams, crew members who are trained to contain and battle dangerous fires.
- All ships must have functional fire doors, ones that can contain and withstand flames and heat.
- All rooms and cabins must be equipped with functional smoke detectors
Even if crews abide by all rules and regulations, fires still pose a serious risk aboard cruise ships. Fires can spread quickly and cause enormous damage, and smoke inhalation can lead to serious injuries and death. Most existing cruise ships are not equipped to allow a helicopter to land, which could bring supplies and help to a ship in crisis.
In the wake of recent cruise ship accidents, industry officials should make it their business to make ships as safe as possible. Passengers deserve to travel on safe ships equipped with trained crews and every possible safety feature. If you have been injured in a cruise ship accident or fire, contact a maritime attorney today.
Jack Hickey – Miami Injury Attorney