On March 10, 2024, at approximately 10:30 am, a fire broke out on the RO-RO passenger vessel Kijevo at the ferry terminal in the port of Biograd na Moru. The initial firefighting efforts were carried out by the crew, with the fire subsequently being contained and fully extinguished by the fire department at around 12:20. There were no injuries or marine pollution reported. The fire caused material damage to the crew accommodations and the adjacent corridor on Deck 3. The fire originated in one of the cabins on Deck 3, with its cause identified as a technical failure in the electrical installations of a consumer device located at the point of origin.
Based on the investigation findings, witness statements (noting the absence of direct eyewitnesses to the fire’s initial outbreak in the locked cabin), and high-level thermal destruction, the exact cause of the fire—manifested as a technical failure in the electrical system—can only be determined hypothetically, with no factors or circumstances identified to refute this hypothesis. It is presumed that overheating and/or sparking led to the melting of plastic components and the insulation of electrical wiring, resulting in a short circuit. This subsequently ignited nearby combustible materials in the cabin, primarily the upholstered seating and wooden furniture
Fires on vessels caused by electrical appliances are often unpredictable and difficult to control once they reach an advanced stage. As demonstrated by this accident, a timely response from the crew is critical. Such preparedness is achieved through regular fire response drills and consistent maintenance of fire protection equipment to contain fires and protect human lives. In cases where necessary, immediate assistance from fire services is also essential.
✓ AIN05-SL-7/2024
In the practice of investigative bodies, when investigating fires caused by electrical appliances in crew quarters, the most common cause is overloading of electrical circuits due to multiple high-power consumers being connected to a single power source (outlet). Although in the case of the fire aboard Kijevo, overloading of the electrical wiring can be ruled out as the cause, it cannot be completely excluded that multiple devices connected to a single outlet contributed to the fire. Additionally, the possibility of intermittent voltage due to a weak contact between the socket and a T-adapter used for multiple connections remains a factor.
Best Practice Recommendation
To prevent and reduce the risk of fires caused by electrical appliances, it is strongly recommended to use only one device per outlet whenever possible.
Recipients This safety notice is intended for: Shipowners, operators, shipping companies, seafarers.
