Fire hazard posed by personal electronic devices
- Safety Flash
- Published on 28 October 2019
- Generated on 18 July 2025
- IMCA SF 25/19
- 1 minute read
A fire incident occurred in a seafarer’s cabin due to a faulty mobile phone charger.
What happened?
The charger was left plugged in while unattended and an electrical short circuit ignited some paper on a desk. Similar incidents can occur with other personal electronic devices, such as laptop computers, radios, and gaming systems.
Fires reported involving personal electronic devices have been attributed by the following causes:
- Inappropriate use of an electronic device.
- Use of defective electronic devices and extension cords.
- Overloading an extension cable or multi-outlet adapter.
- Overloading electrical circuits by plugging too many devices into a single outlet.
- Storing combustible materials (such as paper and clothing) on or under electrical devices.
What actions were taken?
The Master was to remind all crew to:
- Unplug electronic devices when unattended or not in use.
- Inspect electronic devices and associated cords before use.
- Not to store any flammable or combustible materials on or under electronic devices.
- Ensure that voltage and frequency of an electrical device is compatible with the vessel electrical system.
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