HELLO John Drew,
I read your post about the fire and all you have said is correct.
I remember it was 0450hrs when I was leaving the engine room with empty containers for the cage just outside on 6 deck. I was climbing the steps as it all kicked off. there was only seconds to spare for me to make a decision to either make for the exit or get back down and take cover in the control room.
Looking back now I am still undecided as to whether I made the right choice. there was so little time to spare. If I had gone back down to the control room I don't think I would have made it in time and would not be here today, I made the decision to exit on to 6 deck and believe me I moved FAST, As I was running I shouted fire in the engine room but before I could get the words out there was a massive blast which filled the allyway with flames instantly, I really thought It was the end.
As to what you said about the fans for the hospital I can remember that and doctors were all over me, I remember the sound of alarms and I could hear shouting and footsteps running on 6 deck. No one thought I was ever going to make it. Only the day before I was asking did anyone have a spare boiler suit as I had left mine behind on the last ship. Its a good job I was not wearing a nylon one as I would for sure not have survived. I was only wearing a t shirt and a pair of old officers trousers. the shirt was gone in an instant but those old trousers saved my legs.
So many people here remember that terrible morning and It must also have been terrifying for the passengers. Fire aboard ship can spread much faster than people realize and only good training and experience can save the day. If anyone else is reading this that took so many risks to fight the blaze that day I would like to say thanks for getting me back home safely to shore and im sure the passengers were thankful also.
Im always ready for a chat kenneth.lyon@hotmail.co.uk
CHEERS! EVERYONE
