Fire blazes cargo ship containers off British Columbia

LONDON, 25 October 2021, (TON): A fire broke out on containers on a cargo ship carrying mining chemicals off British Columbia, and the Canadian Coast Guard said it is working with the US Coast Guard to assess the situation, including environmental hazards.

Sixteen crew members have been evacuated from the MV Zim Kingston, while five remained on board to fight the fire, the Canadian Coast Guard said in a statement late.

Ten containers were currently burning, it said, adding the fire continued to spread but the ship itself was not on fire.

The agency said “it was working with its U.S. counterpart to track 40 containers that had fallen overboard, saying they pose a significant risk to mariners.”

"Mariners are advised to stay clear of the area. Currently, there is no safety risk to people onshore, however, the situation will continue to be monitored."

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