As the ship continues to burn, we all continue to mourn and grasp what the fallen Newark NJ Firefighters went through, and those who were with and know them, are going through, following the tragic loss of their two members: Firefighters Augusto “Augie” Acabou, 45, and Wayne “Bears” Brooks Jr., 49. Acabou was a nine-year veteran of the NFD and was assigned to Engine 16. Brooks served for 16.5 years and was assigned to Ladder 4.
I have no doubt every Firefighter anywhere is sharing and pondering the thoughts of Captain Jose Alves:
“I just can’t imagine what they were going through when they were lost and not able to come out,” Newark Fire Dept. Capt. Jose Alves said.
HERE IS SOME OF THE MAYDAY RELATED RADIO TRAFFIC
Initial reports are that the ship was carrying thousands of junk vehicles but no electric cars were on the ship, again, based upon current reports.
THE SHIPPING COMPANY HAS A HISTORY OF FIRES
There have been at least 4 other fires reported on ships operated by Grimaldi Group over the past few years. A simple google search brings up several stories….here is one looking at their history:
WATCH MORE HERE:
STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTER VS MARINE/SHIP-BOARD FIREFIGHTING
If there was ever a high risk/low frequency event, it would be a fire aboard a ship such as what happened this week. It’s one of those events where even the most expert individual on these kinds of fires has little actual experience fighting actual fires. It is no easy challenge.
We were sent this video that we want to share with you. It is from a Merchant Marine who is also a Firefighter. He takes time to help us understand the difference-and the challenges with ship fires.
Please Take Time To Watch This Video and please share it…..
Sal Mercogliano – maritime historian at Campbell University, Firefighter and former merchant mariner – discusses the fire on board the Grimaldi Line Grande Costa D’Avorio and the death of two Newark firefighters; along with explaining the dangers of roll-on/roll-off ships, loading used and new cars, and the differences between shoreside and marine firefighting.
Lots to learn.
Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.