24/10/2025
Anchor Operation Failed... Then Fire Started | Real Life at Sea”
Anchor operation failure on ship
Ship anchor windlass fire
If anchor operation fails and a fire with a lot of smoke occurs on a ship, it is a serious emergency situation. Here’s how to understand and respond to it step by step 👇
Possible Causes
Electrical short circuit in the anchor windlass motor or control panel.
Overheating of windlass motor due to overloading or continuous operation.
Hydraulic oil leak catching fire due to heat or sparks.
Mechanical jamming causing excess current draw and overheating.
Immediate Actions (Emergency Response)
1. Stop Operation Immediately
Release the windlass control.
If safe, isolate power to the windlass (trip the circuit breaker from switchboard).
2. Raise the Alarm
Inform Bridge and Engine Room immediately.
Announce fire in forecastle/anchor handling area.
3. Firefighting Actions
Use portable fire extinguishers — usually CO₂ or dry powder (if electrical fire).
If hydraulic oil is burning → use foam extinguisher (not water).
Close all ventilation flaps in the forecastle to prevent spread of smoke.
4. Boundary Cooling
Cool nearby bulkheads or structure with water spray/fog to prevent heat transfer.
5. Fire Party Response
Fire team must wear SCBA, fire suits, and enter only when smoke and heat allow safe entry.
Use fire hoses with fog nozzle (not jet stream) if CO₂ and portable extinguishers fail.
6. Electrical Isolation
Ensure electric power to windlass and associated systems is completely isolated from main switchboard.
⚓ After Fire Is Controlled
Ventilate area carefully (after confirming no re-ignition risk).
Inspect:
Windlass motor, cables, and switchgear.
Hydraulic system for leaks.
Anchor cable and chain locker for heat or smoke damage.
Record the incident in ship’s logbook and report to Chief Engineer, Master, and Company.
Prevention Tips
Regularly inspect cables, insulation, and motor temperature.
Avoid continuous operation of windlass without cooling intervals.
Keep CO₂ extinguisher near anchor handling area.
Periodically test thermal cutouts and overload trips of motor.
