‘BOAT FIRE’ SEES FIRE, COASTGUARD AND RNLI RUSH TO COWES

A ‘boat fire’ off the coast of Cowes led to a callout for HM Coastguard, firefighters and the RNLI this morning (Thursday). At around 11:00 a call was made to suggest that a speedboat – off the coast of Cowes to the south of East Bramble Bouy – was on fire. The alert led to the launching of Cowes RNLI’s lifeboat, which met the casualty vessel and conducted a tow to Trinity Landing, where it was met by awaiting Coastguard teams from The Needles and Cowes RNLI. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service also sent 2 appliances – from Newport and Ryde – to the scene. A man and woman onboard the 35ft vessel – based out of Langstone Harbour – thought there was an electrical fire, however, it turned out to be a split coolant pipe spouting water over the engine, creating steam. Emergency service personnel are beginning to stand down from the incident, which has been declared a false alarm with good intent.