Authorities are working to extinguish a blaze in Henderson engulfing several oil drums underneath the HMAS Darwin.

At 3.41pm on Wednesday, a triple zero call was received on the blaze prompting DFES to deploy several fire and rescue crews to the scene.

On arrival, career firefighters from Fremantle identified several liquefied petroleum gas and oxygen cylinders near the vessel, which is currently propped up on hard stands.

The crew issued a red alert to incoming crews and set up an exclusion zone at the entrance to the Australian Marine Complex along Quill Way.

Pieces of machinery, which includes a forklift, are also located nearby and have been flagged as a concern by authorities.

There are currently 13 fire and rescue crews at the scene.

A hazmat warning has been issued for people in the City of Cockburn due to the amount of smoke billowing from the fire.

DFES has urged people to stay away from the area.

Those in the area have been told to remain inside with their doors and windows closed and air conditioners off, as a precautionary measure.

People in the immediate surroundings are asked to take advice from emergency services personnel.

People with medical concerns should contact their local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.