Yacht ablaze in Sattahip harbor, causing no reported injuries
Na Jomtien, CHON BURI - A fire erupted on a vessel out at sea off Sattahip district's Na Jomtien on Saturday morning, leaving no casualties in its wake. The vessel was positioned at Ao Ban Amphur in Tambon Na Jomtien.
The fire, originating from the engine room, quickly spread towards the passenger deck, prompting the Ocean Marina Yacht Club to dispatch small boats loaded with fire extinguishing gear in an attempt to fight the blaze. The craft was designed to hold 23 passengers.
Firefighters from the disaster prevention office and civilians joined forces, marching aboard fire boats, speedboats, and jet skis to combat the flames. However, it took nearly an hour for the firefighters to bring the fire under control. The extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.
Chidchanok Naknoi, the 58-year-old vessel owner, was seated in the stern when he detected the scent of melting wires. Moments later, smoke filled the engine room. Unable to contain the flames with a fire extinguisher, he leaped onto a rubber life raft to safety. Authorities believe the fire was caused by an electrical short-circuit.
Faulty wiring, aged electrical systems, overloaded circuits, improper installation of electrical components, fuel leaks, unattended cooking, and improper storage of flammable materials are among common contributors to yacht fires. To minimize electrical hazards, regular inspections, circuit breaker utilization, GFCI outlet usage, and annual wire checks are recommended. Proactive maintenance is crucial for safeguarding lives, considering the confined spaces on vessels and the limited possibilities for escape during emergencies.
Firefighters from the Chon Buri Disaster Prevention Office, along with civilians, were sent to the general-news-worthy accident at Ao Ban Amphur, Na Jomtien, where a fire broke out on a yacht. The firefighters joined forces with small boats and jet skis from the Ocean Marina Yacht Club to prevent the fire from spreading further. Regular inspections, proper circuit breaker usage, and GFCI outlet installation are recommended to prevent similar accidents on yachts due to common contributors like faulty wiring and aged electrical systems.
