Working Conditions Aboard the Mellum

On the evening of September 9, 2017, a dramatic medevac operation unfolded off the coast of Hooksiel when the lifeboat 'Vormann Steffens' was summoned by the vessel 'Mellum.' A crew member aboard the 'Mellum' suffered a severe foot injury leading to excessive bleeding. The situation was critical enough to warrant the involvement of further resources, prompting the deployment of the ADAC helicopter 'Christoph 26' to facilitate the transfer of medical personnel to the scene. Reaching the 'Mellum,' situated approximately 3.5 miles off Schillig roads, the 'Vormann Steffens' quickly took action by bringing two crew members aboard from the anti-pollution vessel. Shortly thereafter, the emergency physician and medical team were dropped via helicopter onto the 'Mellum.' After receiving immediate treatment, the injured sailor was transferred to the lifeboat, accompanied by a doctor and paramedics. By 8:15 p.m., the dedicated team returned to the Hooksiel harbor, where a waiting ambulance was prepared to assist in further medical care for the patient. This urgent rescue operation showcases the unwavering commitment of maritime rescue services in safeguarding lives at sea.

On June 7, 2016, a major fire erupted during welding operations in the wheelhouse of the 'Mellum,' following the ignition of spilled diesel fuel. The vessel had been docked at Peters Yard in Wewelsfleth since May 23 for necessary repairs and overhauls. The incident resulted in injuries to two workers who required hospitalization due to smoke inhalation. The flame spread throughout the accommodation block, impacting two decks and leading to extensive damage, including two cabins and the rear section of the accommodation block. In response, yard personnel initiated firefighting measures, and the Wewelsfleth volunteer fire rescue team managed to extinguish the blaze within an hour that afternoon. Following the incident, the Itzehoe police opened an investigation. The total damage is estimated to be around €100,000. For more details, a photo documenting the incident can be found [here](http://bilder.bild.de/fotos-skaliert/34259df8b4f43c52ebe6d2fa80dadffa-jpg_200001591_mbqf-1465387428-46194160/5,w=985,c=0.bild.jpg).