Man injured as gas explosion blows roof off boat

The boat was blown apart in the explosion and sank. Credit: Martin McNamee

A man has been injured after a gas explosion blew the roof off a boat on the River Erne at Lisbellaw in Co Fermanagh.

The incident, on a privately owned pleasure boat, happened at Johnstons Shore - off the Inishmore Road - shortly before 11am on Wednesday.

The man was on the boat at the time of the explosion, which blew the roof into the water, but managed to escape.

He went to hospital himself to be treated for his injuries.

Fire crews, the RNLI, Coastguard helicopter, police and paramedics attended the scene.

A NIFRS spokesperson said: “A further search of the water was carried out for any other casualties.

“However, it has been confirmed that no-one else was on the boat at the time of the gas explosion.

“The boat is now submerged in the water.”

The Fire Service is further reminding boat owners that any gas appliances on boats must be installed and maintained by a qualified engineer and carbon monoxide alarms should be fitted.