USCG Exam PracticeFirefighting, damage control, and emergency response
A fire breaks out in the engine room of a small passenger vessel. After isolating the space, the engineer shuts off fuel supply and activates the fixed extinguishing system. What is the next action specified in 46 CFR §185.512 if the fire cannot be controlled?
- A. Maneuver the vessel to minimize the effect of wind on the fire, then abandon ship.
- ✓ Immediately notify the Coast Guard and other craft in the vicinity by radiotelephone.Correct
- C. Re-open ventilation to clear extinguishing agent before re-entry.
- D. Deploy life rafts and direct passengers to muster stations without further notification.
Why B is correct
46 CFR §185.512(a)(3)(vi) states that if unable to control the fire, the crew must immediately notify the Coast Guard and other craft in the vicinity by radiotelephone. Maneuvering to minimize wind effect is a prior step; abandoning ship and deploying survival craft are subsequent actions after notification.
Cited:46 CFR §185.512