Fire crews were called to deal with a blaze on a 50-foot fishing vessel Sunday morning in French Creek.
The fire, at the French Creek Marina, was controlled quickly by the Parksville Fire Department and the Coast Guard. No other vessels were rafted to the boat, so exposure to neighbouring boats was “minimal,” according to Fire Chief Marc Norris.
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The fire was in the wheelhouse area of the boat – crews extended their hose lines from the fire engine on land 100 metres away.
“The construction of the vessel was mainly of steel which helped to contain the fire,” said Norris. “Likely would have been much worse if the vessel was of fibreglass or wood construction.”
At this point, the cause of the blaze is unknown. No occupants were on board – one firefighter suffered a minor injury and will likely need a tetanus shot.
“We are appreciative of the support received from our emergency services partners including NI011 Fire Dispatchers, B.C. Ambulance, Oceanside RCMP and the Canadian Coast Guard,” said Norris. “Marina staff were also on hand and offered support.”