Russian Arctic forum city hosts ice breaker fire drill

The exercise aboard a nuclear-powered vessel in the port of Murmansk was aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness in a harsh climate

A large-scale fire drill has taken place aboard a nuclear-powered icebreaker ahead of the International Arctic Forum. The two-day event is to be held in Murmansk, Russia – the world’s largest city north of the Arctic Circle and home to a strategic port.

The exercise, carried out by Russia’s Emergencies Ministry, took place on Tuesday onboard the “legendary” nuclear icebreaker Lenin, the ministry said in a statement. It was aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness in the Arctic’s harsh climate, addressing the unique challenges posed by the region’s extreme conditions.

During the drill, a simulated fire erupted in the living quarters amid hazardous operations. The specially trained crew swiftly activated emergency protocols to combat the 200-square-meter blaze. Additionally, several crew members participated in a simulated rescue after entering the icy waters of the Kola Bay during the exercise.

Firefighting units from the Murmansk garrison promptly responded to extinguish the blaze and rescue affected individuals. The exercise involved over 80 personnel and 15 units of equipment, including four watercraft.

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Lenin is the world’s first nuclear-powered ship. Entering service in 1959, it revolutionized Arctic navigation by enabling year-round operation along Russia’s Northern Sea Route without the frequent refueling stops required by conventional diesel-powered icebreakers.

The International Arctic Forum, co-organized by the Russian government and Rosatom, serves as a major platform for addressing the development of the polar region. Its abundant untapped energy and mineral resources, coupled with its strategic trade routes, have garnered heightened global interest.