Four people treated after fire on RFA Fort Victoria

Four people have been treated by medical crews after a fire broke out on the moored RFA Fort Victoria. It was extinguished by the crew with no serious injuries. This ship is the sole UK solid stores support ship available to replenish the carrier strike group.

RFA Fort Victoria had been part of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group getting ready for intense training in Exercise Strike Warrior.

Emergency services from across Dorset, including fire crews from Bridport, Dorchester, Portland and Weymouth, were called to Portland Port at 7.18am on Monday morning (10May21) to respond to the fire.

The fire was extinguished by onboard personnel, but firefighters ensured the scene was safe.

Four personnel were treated for smoke inhalation by ambulance crews, with no serious injures, says the Dorset Echo.

According to Navy Lookout all sailors are highly trained in firefighting but it is standard procedure for civilian firefighters to be called to any fire when alongside. Fires in confined spaces are potentially deadly and smoke inhalation is a particular hazard. The ship is equipped with fixed firefighting systems but Fort Victoria recently embarked a full load of fuel, ammunition and stores for the forthcoming deployment. A speedy and professional response to any fire on board is obviously vital.

Fort Victoria had met up with HMS Queen Elizabeth to carry out a replenishment-at-sea, supplying the carrier with stores and ammunition in a moment that was unique for commanding officer Captain Karl Woodfield.

“The ship’s company are buzzing after seeing HMS Queen Elizabeth up-close-and-personal for the first time,” says Woodfield.

“This is a significant moment for both the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Royal Navy as we proved the critical capability which enables the Carrier Strike Group to deploy globally.”