Norwegian chemical tanker caught fire off Fredrikstad – All crew safe

_{Photo: RS «Stormbull»/Redningsselskapet / Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue}

The fire has been extinguished and no one has been injured after a Norwegian chemical tanker caught fire on Tuesday. Norwegian authorities and the shipping company Utkilen confirmed that the situation is stable. The shipowner will reportedly initiate an internal investigation and provide further information when confirmed.

The shipowner said a small fire occurred on July 28 onboard the 9.500 dwt (1996-built) chemical tanker Bergstraum.

The vessel was anchoraged outside Fredrikstad, Norway with 15 Baltic and Filipino crewmembers onboard.

At this stage, the cause of the incident has not been established and relevant authorities have been notified.

“Our immediate priorities are the safety of all personnel onboard, the protection of the vessel and surrounding environment, and ensuring that all required response measures are taken in close coordination with the authorities,” Utkilen said in a news release.

While the cause of the incident remained unknown, the company reaffirmed that the crew on board and shore organisation are working to gain full control of the situation.

Two rescue boats, along with