Ships carry fuel, oil, chemicals, and electrical systems — perfect for fires. The course stresses constant vigilance and good housekeeping.

High-risk areas & prevention tips:

• Engine Room — Oil leaks on hot surfaces (exhaust pipes >200°C) ignite easily. Poor lagging or welding sparks are common causes. → Clean spills immediately, maintain insulation, enforce hot-work permits, regular inspections.

Hydraulic Oil Leak Starts Fire in Engine Room

• Galley — Overheated cooking oil, dirty exhaust ducts, unattended stoves. → Regular cleaning of grease filters, never leave hot oil, use deep-fat fryer thermostats.
• Accommodation — Smoking, faulty wiring, overloaded sockets, heaters near bedding. → Strict no-smoking rules in cabins, electrical checks, no personal heaters.
• Cargo Holds — Self-heating cargoes (coal, grain), poor ventilation, static sparks. → Follow IMDG Code, use inert gas systems on tankers, no smoking during cargo ops.

Prevention is always better: Regular patrols, no unauthorized hot work, proper waste disposal.