VIFEMS Investigates Boat Fires In St. John

VIFEMS Investigates Boat Fires In St. John

CRUZ BAY — The Romeo Company of the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to a boat fire in the Hansen Bay Area early Monday morning. 

Upon arrival at 4:07 a.m., fire crews did not detect any fire or smoke, VUFEMS said. The fire crew determined no immediate danger to the surrounding community and investigated the vessel to ensure no hidden fires or potential hazards were present.

There were no reports of injuries, and all passengers and crew were safely transported to Coral Bay dock. The U.S. Coast Guard assumed command of the incident upon arrival. 

VIFEMS Investigates Boat Fires In St. John

The Romeo Company responded to a boat fire in the Coral Bay harbor at 1:20 p.m. Tuesday. Fire crews arrived to find the vessel fully engulfed in flames, and efforts to extinguish the fire were deployed by Sea Tow Services.

There were no reported injuries and no passengers or crew aboard at the time of the fire. The teams worked diligently to ensure no additional hazards were present in the surrounding community. Upon arrival, the U.S. Coast Guard assumed command of the incident. 

Pending further investigation, the VIFEMS will assist the U.S. Coast Guard to determine the causes and origins of both incidents. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated VIFEMS personnel, Sea Tow Services, and the U.S. Coast Guard for their swift response and collaborative efforts in responding to both incidents,” said Director Daryl George. “Their quick actions were instrumental in containing the fires and ensuring the safety of everyone involved. 

These incidents highlight the critical need for effective fire and emergency medical response on land and sea. As such, VIFEMS is in the process of acquiring firefighting vessels equipped with state-of-the-art technology and equipment to enable rapid response to fires in coastal areas. 

The VIFEMS encourages all boat owners and operators to regularly inspect their vessels for potential hazards, ensure that they have working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency plans. In the event of any emergency, call 911 for assistance and comply with the instructions of Emergency Operators and First Responders.