A devastating explosion rocked the Miss Croix Yacht Harbor in Prescott, Wisconsin, on Saturday, forcing nearly a dozen people to jump into the water for safety.

According to CBS Minnesota, the incident occurred at the fuel dock when a boat's engine exploded during an attempted start, leading to a chain reaction that affected nearby vessels. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources confirmed that eight of the eleven people who were ejected into the river required hospital treatment.

The explosion created a dangerous situation at the confluence of the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, where hundreds of vessels were either docked or navigating the waterways. Steve Schiller, a witness from Hastings, Minnesota, described hearing a loud bang before seeing people desperately jumping off the burning vessel as flames engulfed it within minutes.

Quick-thinking Marina Owner Prevents Disaster

Colton Anderson, owner of Leo's Landing marina, emerged as a hero when he used his own boat to push the burning vessel away from the docks. His swift action prevented what could have been a catastrophic chain reaction of fires.

The intense heat from the burning boat had already begun melting the canvas of a nearby vessel, threatening to ignite other boats in the vicinity. Anderson's family-owned landing has served the area for generations, and his experience proved crucial in managing the emergency.

The fire's intensity posed a significant threat to the wooden docks and surrounding boats, with witnesses reporting massive plumes of smoke visible throughout the harbor. The strategic positioning of the burning vessel away from other boats likely saved millions in potential damage.

Critical Safety Protocols Under Investigation

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has launched an investigation into the exact cause of the explosion. Preliminary reports suggest the incident occurred during the boat's startup procedure.

Anderson emphasized the crucial importance of following proper safety protocols, particularly the use of blowers before starting boat engines. These devices are designed to remove potentially dangerous gas fumes from the bilge area of the vessel.

The marina owner explained that accumulated fumes combined with a spark from ignition or a compromised fuel system could lead to catastrophic explosions. He stressed that fiberglass boats burn extremely hot, making prevention absolutely essential.

Maritime Safety Measures Take Center Stage

The incident has sparked renewed discussions about boat safety protocols among the local boating community. The explosion serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper vessel maintenance and safety procedures.

Local authorities are working with maritime safety experts to review current safety guidelines at fueling stations. The incident has prompted neighboring marinas to conduct additional safety training for their staff and boat owners.

Emergency response teams have praised the quick actions of both bystanders and first responders in preventing further injuries. The coordination between various agencies demonstrated the importance of emergency preparedness in maritime settings.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy