Refueling Barge Takes on Water in Long Beach

The barge was leaning to one side early Thursday as salvage crews attempted to remove water

Firefighters kept a refueling barge afloat and prevented fuel from leaking after it began taking on water late Wednesday in Long Beach.

The barge at 320 Golden Shore Lane has a fueling station for the Catalina Express, which ferries passengers on the 20-mile channel crossing between Long Beach and Santa Catalina Island. Crews responded to the barge at about 11:30 p.m. Wednesday and shut off diesel fuel flow on the barge, which was leaning to one side early Thursday.

No fuel was released into the water, according to authorities. A yellow containment boom surrounded the barge to prevent fuel from spreading in the water if there is a leak.

"We've minimized any potential risk of fuel leaking or spilling in to the actual water," said Jake Heflin, of the Long Beach Fire Department.

About 10 gallons of diesel might be remaining in the fuel lines, Heflin said.Salvage crews will attempt to upright the barge Thursday and divers will likely check for leaks to determine why the 110-by-30-foot barge began taking on water.

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