A Pillar of Black Smoke Rose Above the Sea Port in Klaipėda: A Forklift Caught Fire
A forklift caught fire at the Klaipėda Sea Port in Lithuania, prompting a swift response from firefighters who quickly extinguished the flames.
On February 19, the Klaipėda Fire and Rescue Department received reports of a fire at the Klaipėda Sea Port, specifically in the southern part of the port near the beginning of Perkėlos Street. Firefighters were dispatched around 10 AM to address the incident, which occurred at the former international ferry terminal now operated by the Klaipėda Sea Cargo Company (KLASCO). During the time of the fire, port workers were loading a moored ship when the forklift suddenly caught fire.
Witnesses reported seeing the burning forklift, which was marked with the name 'RADUGA KARBON', as it stood on an open barge. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished rapidly, alleviating fears of a more significant incident. Firefighters noted that the swift action of the port workers contributed to preventing the fire from spreading further. Local media agency ‘Vakarų ekspresas’ detailed how the workers managed to douse the flames with snow before the firefighters’ arrival, highlighting the urgency and effective response to the alarming situation.
The incident underscores the importance of safety measures in busy port environments where heavy machinery operations are routine. Although there were no reported injuries or extensive damages, the quick containment of the fire by both port personnel and emergency services demonstrates a well-coordinated emergency response, essential in maintaining safety in industrial settings like the Klaipėda Sea Port, which plays a crucial role in Lithuania's maritime operations.