Kent firefighters responded to a small watercraft that caught fire in the boat launch area of Lake Meridian at about 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
A man, a woman and their dog were able to evacuate the boat safely with no injuries, according to a Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority media release.
Due to the unknown ecological impact of the boat fuel and other contents, fire crews allowed the fuel to burn off rather than allow fuel and oil to spill into the lake.
Firefighters were able to contain the water craft to the boat launch area even though the force from the hoses’ water streams made controlling the boat somewhat difficult. Using the fire department’s swift water rescue boat and crews on the dock, the firefighters maintained control of the fire and ensured no other boats or structures would be damaged.
Crews on scene sought advice from the state Department of Ecology (DOE) and the U.S. Coast Guard. The DOE determined that the combination of the hot weather forecasted and the minimal amounts of fuel remaining on the lake, no other action was needed since the fuel would dissipate quickly.
No injuries to the occupants or responders were reported. The Kent fire investigator deemed the fire to be accidental and the cause was due to a malfunctioning motor. No fire loss estimate was provided.
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