New Bradford, MA - At approximately 9:00 a.m., on 15 February New Bradford Fire Dept. crews were dispatched to a report of smoke coming from a commercial fishing vessel located behind 24 North Front Street. Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke coming from a docked vessel identified as the Kineo.

Fire Department personnel boarded the vessel and made entry into the engine room, where they were able to quickly extinguish the fire, successfully limiting damage to the boat. During overhaul operations, several damaged lithium-ion batteries were discovered. As a precaution due to the risk of thermal runaway, the batteries were safely removed, overpacked, and later transported to a secure location.

Engine 1, Engine 7, Engine 8, Ladder 1, Ladder 4, Command Units 1 and 2, and Haz Mat-1 responded to the incident.

Crews once again demonstrated exceptional skill while handling one of the most challenging types of fires encountered. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the New Bedford Fire Department Investigation Unit.