At midday on Tuesday, an explosion rocked the city harbour of Münster on the Dortmund-Ems Canal. A motor yacht about 15 metres long was completely engulfed in flames within a very short time after the explosion. Thick black smoke billowed over the former Osmo halls. The fire brigade and DLRG rushed to the scene. At around 1.30 pm, the fire brigade reported that the fire near the rowing club had been successfully extinguished.
Cause still unclear
The exact cause of the explosion is still unclear. However, the fire brigade has expressed an initial suspicion: it is possible that a gas cylinder on board could have triggered the explosion. Fire investigators are now being called in to clarify the exact cause of the incident. The fire completely destroyed the boat.
Safety systems on board
Although such incidents are fortunately rare, the fire shows how important it is to have functioning safety systems. Owners should carry out regular safety checks and maintenance on board. They should pay particular attention to the proper handling of gas cylinders and other potentially hazardous materials.
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What happens now?
The rescue services were able to prevent the motor yacht from sinking. Together with the waterway police, the Münster fire brigade laid out oil booms to stop the spread of leaking fuel. According to the waterway police, the ship will be recovered in the next few days.
