VIDEO: The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department is asking for continued prayers for its firefighters who were injured in an explosion while battling a fire on a cargo ship docked at Blount Island. On Saturday, the blaze continued to burn, and experts say it could continue for days.
Eight firefighters were injured in the blast, which occurred on Thursday. Fire Chief Keith Powers said at least four have significant burns and will be off the job for “a long time.” A ninth firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion. Five of the eight firefighters who were hospitalized were released on Friday, according to Jacksonville Fire and Rescue.
Powers said that crews on Saturday will be doing some surveying to figure out the next plan of attack. The U.S. Coast Guard said because of the tireless efforts to spray water on the ship’s exterior, the vessel’s hull has remained intact -- keeping it from breaking up and sinking, which is a good thing for safety and potential environmental impacts.