Members of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s Maritime Training Group (MTG) carried out firefighting training with the crew of the Republic of Fiji Naval Ship Volasiga in Suva this week.
The training included firefighting, leak stopping and the use of Damage Control Breathing Apparatus.
Starting with practical first aid firefighting using carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry powder extinguishers, the Fijian sailors initially worked on tackling diesel pit fires on the training ground at the Republic of Fiji Navy Training Base before carrying out drills training in the fire unit.
The personnel also went through a series of fire exercise scenarios and how to handle smoke on board the oceanic survey vessel RFNS Volasiga.
MTG team leader Lieutenant Commander Raymond McLaughlin said fire was one of the most dangerous events that could happen on a ship.
“If you have a fire on a ship when you’re at sea, it not only threatens the physical platform that’s keeping you out of the water, but can also disable your electrical or mechanical systems, which can lead to power loss and inability to control the ship, and that may result in a collision or grounding,” he said.
“Being able to effectively suppress a fire is a crucial skill for sailors, and we’ve really enjoyed working with the Fijian Navy on this training course.”
The MTG is often used to train Navy personnel in New Zealand, but in recent times, it is frequently being asked to work with other Pacific nations.
