Norwegian cargo ship catches fire in Dutch port, 4 injured

Norwegian cargo ship catches fire in Dutch port, 4 injured

2011-07-08 15:47:43 GMT+7 (ICT)

ROTTERDAM (BNO NEWS) -- Four crew members were injured on late Thursday afternoon when a large fire broke out on a Norwegian cargo ship in Europe's largest port, Dutch police said on Friday.

The fire broke out at around 9.30 p.m. local time on board the 1991-built, 3,728 tonnes cargo ship Skog, which arrived in the Port of Rotterdam on Thursday afternoon. The fire broke out in the ship's chimney before it spread to the engine room, causing serious damage.

"As a result of the fire four people were injured by smoke inhalation and inhalation of diesel fumes," a police spokesperson said on Friday. "The victims were treated at the scene and at a hospital for their injuries." Some of those injured were said to be in a serious condition.

Police said the fire on the ship, which was carrying aluminium, was declared under control at 11.05 p.m. local time. The cause of the blaze was not immediately known.

The Port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and is located in the city of Rotterdam. It is also one of the busiest ports in the world.

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