During the Battle of Midway, damage & fire control teams aboard the USS Yorktown were so effective that fires from battle damage were quickly brought under control and even convinced the Japs that an additional carrier had entered the zone of action.
Many other WWII carriers were saved or survived to return home in similar manner.
That was nearly eighty years ago! What’s happened since then!!?
As I recall the fire equipment was out of commission due to repairs.
I would assume... note that word... that the BHR being at dock was not fully manned by its assigned crew. That limits the damage control that could have been done had the ship been at sea. Instead you’re relying on land-based fire fighters and tugs that take time to be assembled and to get onboard. Fire could have been way out of control by then.
I don’t know who would be legally responsible for the ship while in maintenance. Probably the superintendent of the shipyard, but who really knows?
At work We say we are in peace time red tape war. Cant do crap without asking permission all the way up to some 4 star level.