Office of External Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard

Date: Aug. 5, 2009

Contact:  Petty Officer Prentice Danner

(713) 578-3080

Coast Guard responds to gas compression plant fire

HOUSTON — The Coast Guard responded to a fire aboard the High Island 264, a gas-compressor plant 90 miles southeast of Galveston, shortly after 10 p.m., Aug. 4, 2009.

The Coast Guard Cutter Manta arrived on scene early this morning and reported that the fire was out.  Additionally, an over flight this morning reported a light sheen around the plant, but no extensive pollution.

Coast Guard Sector Houston - Galveston received a call reporting that a small fire had caused an explosion. All 39 crewmembers aboard the plant were evacuated safely by the offshore supply vessel Gulf Endeavor, which was tied up at a platform nearby. 

After the plant is deemed safe for re-boarding, the Coast Guard will investigate the cause of the fire and explosion.

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Office of External Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard

Date: Aug. 5, 2009

Contact:  Petty Officer Prentice Danner
(832) 293-1293 

Coast Guard responding to report of gas compression plant on fire

HOUSTON — The Coast Guard Cutter Manta is responding to a gas compressor plant fire which occurred Aug. 4, 2009, 90 miles southeast of Galveston.

Coast Guard Sector Houston - Galveston received a call from the High Island 264, a gas-compressor plant, shortly after 10 p.m., reporting that a small fire had caused an explosion. All 39 crew members aboard the plant were evacuated safely by the offshore supply vessel Gulf Endeavor, which was tied up at a platform nearby. 

Crew members reported that the plant's emergency shut off switch was engaged upon evacuation.

The Coast Guard plans to monitor the situation through the night. 

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