Boat explodes at Kaibo

(CNS): The Cayman Islands Fire Service has begun an investigation into a boat which exploded yesterday (Thursday 30 July), causing burn injuries to four people. According to a police report, the explosion happened on a boat in the North Sound near the Kaibo Dock. The boat began to have engine trouble and then the explosion occurred, causing the occupants to jump from the vessel into the water. Medics responded to the scene and four of the people involved were taken to hospital for treatment to burns.

“Boat owners have a responsibility to take certain steps to ensure their vessels are secure and that all passengers are safe,” said Head of the Marine Unit, Chief Inspector Courtney Myles. “Yesterday, an explosion occurred on a vessel which resulted in some of the occupants getting burned. Thankfully, there were no life-threatening injuries. The cause of the explosion is being investigated by the Fire Department but this incident should serve as a reminder that safety checks need to be done every time you use your boat. You should also carry the necessary safety equipment, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers.”

In the wake of three boats found drifting yesterday after they had been cut from moorings, the Customs, Immigration and the Police Marine Unit also told boat owners to ensure the safety of vessels in terms of accidents but also the security of their boats.

Myles said owners should always ensure that everyone on board the vessel wears a life vest and leave boats and equipment as secure as possible. He reminded them never to leave keys in the ignition or on the vessel and take all steps necessary to deter a thief such as removing all unsecured items and setting the alarm if there is one.

Chief Inspector Myles also called on the boating community to look out for each other. “Keep an eye on other boats as well as your own and report any suspicious activity you see to the police,” he said.

Police listed the following tips to ensure safety and security in the marine community.

Always ensure that everyone on board the vessel wears a life vest – it is required by law to have a Personal Floatation Device, PFD.

Check engine, fuel and navigational equipment before every outing.

Always tell others where you intend to go and approximate time of return.

Carry some means of calling for help at all times (VHF radio or cell phone)

Check weather predictions and tides before going out and whilst at sea.

 Keep fire extinguishers on board; preferably at the most fire sensitive areas of your vessel.

Never drink alcohol and operate a vessel – alcohol tends to affect a person more on thewater.

Observe Port Authority rules and regulations.

Never leave anything valuable on display, however small and insignificant it may seem. Thieves steal first and think about value later.

Don’t leave anything loose on the deck or in the cockpit.

Always keep your boat locked when no-one is on board, even for a short time. Use strong padlocks or rim locks on all your hatches, entry points and cockpit lockers.

Fit an alarm and use a visible sticker to deter potential thieves.

Keep a list of the serial numbers of valuables on your boat like your radio or navigation equipment and take pictures of your items so you can prove they belong to you. Mark all your goods with an invisible marker stating your name and contact details.

Anyone with information about crime taking place in the Cayman Islands should contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 (TIPS). All persons calling Crime Stoppers remain anonymous, and are eligible for a reward of up to $1000, should their information lead to an arrest or recovery of property/drugs.