Fire Aboard Cargo Ship in Avonmouth Brought Under Control

A fire broke out on a Portugal-flagged general cargo vessel, the RIJN Confidence, which was transporting scrap metal, on October 2nd. The blaze ignited in cargo hold 2 while the ship was docked at Royal Edward Dock, Avonmouth Port in the United Kingdom.

The crew responded promptly, activating firefighting procedures and notifying local authorities for assistance. At approximately 11:47 AM local time, Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called in to support the onboard firefighting efforts.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service reported that around sixty firefighters, supported by eleven fire engines and additional specialized equipment, were deployed to the scene. Although the fire was successfully contained, firefighters remained on-site to monitor the scrap metal with thermal cameras to ensure it didn't reignite, as metal can retain heat for some time. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.

A spokesperson for Hellas Confidence Ship Management, the agency responsible for RIJN Confidence, confirmed that the fire started during loading operations. All crew members were unharmed, and no environmental contamination was detected.