NORTH-EAST maritime experts have sparked an international fire safety collaboration into life in Africa.
Staff at South Shields Marine School (SSMS) have provided vital technical know-how to help Kenya’s navy build its first specialist fire-fighting training centre.
They have also donated important operational kit – including breathing apparatus and two 16- person life rafts – to bolster the lifesaving initiative.
Their work is part of a joint British and Danish armed forces project to improve Kenya’s naval capabilities, keep its sailors safe – and boost international co-operation.
Once operational, which could be later this year, the facility will help seafarers learn how to fight fires in dangerous enclosed spaces, potentially saving lives and craft.