Page 88 - Rules of Navigation2020
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Art. 61 - Fire Fighting:
(1) Vessels transiting the Canal should be equipped with the firefighting equipment in
accordance with the requirement of the SOLAS. All equipment should be in a good and
efficient condition.
(2) Fire hoses with suitable nozzles attached shall be connected to the outlets of fire lines at all
times while in the Canal. Sufficient hoses shall be connected to reach all parts of the vessel.
(3) As a precautionary measure, on approaching the Canal, all vessels must have a fire wire
(1)
hanging over the side ready for use fore and aft., before entering Canal
Art. 62 - Fire on Board:
(1) In case of fire on board, when in harbor, the Master must inform the Suez Canal Port Office
at once.
(2) When underway in the Canal or anchored in the Lakes or made fast in Canal, Master must
inform the Movement Control Office. At the same time, he must make the appropriate
International Signal and call attention by sounding a prolonged blast on the whistle or siren.
Also, he must make ready to get underway if required to do so.
(3) Neighboring vessels must in such cases also be ready to change berth (position).
(4) Masters are responsible for the use, on board their vessels, the firefighting appliances and
installations for the stability and safety of their vessels.
(5) The SCA officials will cooperate with the Master for the purpose of directing the
firefighting operations.
(6) If in the opinion of SCA officials, whose decision shall be final, there is a risk of fire
spreading, they may order any action deemed necessary in the best interest of all parties
concerned; a change of mooring, beaching or taking vessel out to sea. It is understood that
Masters are nevertheless responsible for all damages or accidents arising directly or
indirectly from outbreaks of fire or from salvage operations.
Art. 63 - Fueling:
(1) A vessel at fuel berth or while being supplied by fuel in waiting areas, shall at all times be
ready for immediate firefighting. Vessel shall keep the engines ready to move on short
notice.
(2) The Master, the principals (owner and/or operator) of the vessel shall be liable to indemnify
any damage that may occur from pollution during fueling operation.
1 ) See Para 3, Art. 19 page 36.
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