MyFDNY News: November 2024

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MyFDNY NEWS

AS DRY WEATHER CONTINUES, THE FDNY URGES NEW YORKERS TO BE VIGILANT AMID HISTORIC NUMBER OF BRUSH FIRES

In response to an unprecedented number of brush fires in recent weeks, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker is urging New Yorkers to remain alert and take precautions to help reduce the risk of brush fires.

The FDNY responded to 229 brush fires across the city between Oct. 29 and Nov. 12—the highest two-week total in New York City history. This spike compares starkly to the average of 200 fires during the entire month of October over the past three years.

NOVEMBER 2024

FIRE COMMISSIONER Robert S. Tucker

FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER Mark Guerra

CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT John M. Esposito

“Remarkably dry conditions in October and so far in November have resulted in a historic amount of brush fires over the last two weeks, and we need the public to remain vigilant,” Fire Commissioner Tucker said. “Due to a significant lack of rainfall, the threat of fast-spreading brush fires fueled by dry vegetation and windy conditions pose a real threat to our members and our city. I want to once again urge New Yorkers to FDNY HOSTS FEDERAL PARTNERS FOR 2-DAY SYMPOSIUM ON LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES AND NATIONAL SAFETY CONCERNS

Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker and other FDNY officials hosted the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Fire Administrator and representatives from fire service across the United States for a two-day symposium focused on lithium-ion batteries.

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AS DRY WEATHER CONTINUES, THE FDNY URGES NEW YORKERS TO BE VIGILANT AMID

NUMBER OF BRUSH FIRES

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follow important safety tips to reduce the chances of a brush fire occurring during this extraordinarily dry period.”

Here are some safety tips:

• Avoid outdoor burning, including campfires, bonfires and any other open flames.

• Be mindful of smoking. If you smoke outdoors, always dispose of your cigarette butts and matches properly.

• Take extra safety precautions when welding or undertaking other hot construction activities, particularly when near dry grass or leaves.

• When enjoying the parks, please stay on designated trails. This will help protect surrounding vegetation and minimize the risk of accidental fires.

• Fireworks remain illegal in New York City.

• Remove litter and any excessive brush or leaves from sidewalks abutting residences and businesses.

For more brush fire safety tips, scan the QR code on Page 1 or go to FDNYSmart.org/BrushFires. n

FDNY HOSTS FEDERAL PARTNERS FOR 2-DAY SYMPOSIUM ON LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES AND NATIONAL SAFETY CONCERNS

Continued from Page 1

The event, which kicked off Oct. 29 at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall’s Island, focused on sharing data, discussing public safety risks and shaping a research-and-development agenda to combat the increasing impacts lithium-ion batteries and micromobility devices, including e-bikes, are having on communities across the country.

U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, as well as the Department of Homeland Security's National Security and Technology Laboratory, attended the event. Fire service experts from Seattle, Denver, Chicago and Atlanta were also in attendance.

Fire Commissioner Tucker said during his opening remarks. "The FDNY is proud to partner with all of you in our effort to solve this problem. We want to hear from you—we especially want to know what you know. We are aware that what happens in New York eventually happens in the rest of the country and around the world. The lives we save in this work are not just the lives of New Yorkers; they are the lives of people throughout the country and around the world," "I urge all of you to take advantage of the opportunity to learn from each other and think about things in a new way. We are hopeful that the conversations that take place these two days will make our city, our country and the world a safer place."

The workshop agenda included breakout sessions, with topics including utilizing science to solve problems for first responders, community risk reduction and best practices in battery-incident emergency response.

FDNY Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn also spoke during the opening remarks. He said lithium-ion battery fires are one of the most important subjects in the fire service right now.

"This is an emerging threat that has gotten ahead of the legislation that we need to tackle this problem," Chief Flynn said. "We are willing to share the data that we have collected here. I think we have a duty to make that happen. We also appreciate any efforts that you can make on behalf of the federal legislation that is still pending."

In May, Congress passed H.R. 1797, also known as the "Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act." Fire Commissioner Tucker continues to advocate for the Senate to pass the pending companion bill. n

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker swore in members of his executive team on Oct. 24, including First Deputy Commissioner Mark Guerra and Chief of Department John M. Esposito. The ceremony took place at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall's Island.

"I've been an admirer of the FDNY for years, but nothing could have prepared me for how impressed I have been day in and day out by all the people that make this place work," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "Today, I'm beyond honored to make each of you a part of my team—publicly and officially. For the last several years, as you've worked up the ranks, you have been an example to those you lead. We also promote several civilians today. Know that the behind-the-scenes work that you do is critically important to this Department, and your hard work is appreciated by all."

First Deputy Commissioner Mark Guerra joined the FDNY in 1988, beginning his career as a firefighter at Engine 237/Ladder 124 in Brooklyn. In 2019, he was promoted to battalion chief, assigned to Battalion 35. He has been cited for bravery on four separate occasions during his career.

"From the time I joined the FDNY, I've always been told to leave this Department a little bit better than I found it. That's my plan, and I hope that we all do that together," First Deputy Commissioner Guerra said. Chief of Department John M. Esposito began his career with the FDNY in 1991. He most recently served as Chief of Fire Operations, where he oversaw the day-to-day work of more than 11,000 firefighters and fire officers. After being sworn in, Chief Esposito recalled a book he saw in the library when he was in eighth grade. He said he picked up the book, Dennis Smith's "Report from Engine Co. 82," and it changed his life. He joined the FDNY several years later.

"To me, the most important aspect of the job is to make sure that all

the people in the field—our EMTs, our firefighters, our fire protection inspectors, our officers, paramedics, fire marshals and chief officers—that everybody is well-trained and well-equipped to do the job we ask them to do," Chief Esposito said. "We are a unified team moving forward to protect lives, solve problems and make the FDNY better than it has ever been."

The following members were also promoted or appointed during the executive staff promotion ceremony: Chief of Fire Operations Kevin F. Woods, Assistant Chief of Fire Operations John A. Sarrocco, Special Operations Command Malcolm Moore, Assistant Deputy Commissioner - External Partnerships James Harding, Associate Commissioner - Support Services Jeremy Brooks, Assistant Commissioner - Family Assistance Unit Dominique Joseph and General Law - Corina Leske. n

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FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker greets members of the FDNY Running Club at the NYC Marathon finish line in Central Park.

(1) FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker and Department members marched in the 105th Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11 in Manhattan. See the insert in this month’s newsletter for a list of FDNY members who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. (2) FDNY Captain Jason Brezler, who is also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, was honored as the grand marshal at the 40th annual Bronx Veterans Day Parade, which took place on Nov. 10. (3) The Department promoted fire members to the rank of captain and lieutenant at a ceremony on Oct. 28 at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island. The promoted members comprise more than 700 years of experience with the FDNY and will be assigned to units throughout New York City. (4) More than 200 EMS stations and firehouses across New York City’s five boroughs opened their doors to the public during the weekend of Oct. 19-20 as part of the FDNY’s citywide Open House Program. The public was able to tour the facilities and check out the various apparatus, including ambulances and fire trucks. Members also educated the public about fire and life safety, conducted demonstrations and discussed careers with the FDNY. Thanks to all who stopped by! (5) The FDNY celebrated a historic milestone for Engine Company 42 on Nov. 8, marking 150 years of service to the Mount Hope neighborhood in the Bronx. Engine 42, known as “Da OK Corral,” was established on Jan. 1, 1874. It was originally located on Fulton Avenue before relocating to its current site on Monroe Avenue on Jan. 1, 1915. (6) The FDNY, in coordination with New York Cares, officially launched the New York Cares Coat Drive on Nov. 12 at P.S. 20 in Manhattan. The drive is designed to collect gently used coats at 49 battalions across the city. Donations made during the drive will be distributed to nonprofits, schools, shelters and other organizations to help vulnerable New Yorkers. n

MEET DONOVAN ETIENNE AUTO SERVICE MECHANIC, FLEET SERVICES

1. What is your name, title and years at FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?

My name Is Donavan Etienne; I have been working for the FDNY for four years. I work at the Fleet Services repair shop. I perform a range of services, from simple repairs to automotive maintenance services such as preventive maintenance inspection; battery service; checking, servicing, patching and changing tires; lubrication and oil change; cleaning, washing and polishing; vehicle repair; maintaining engines, motors and motor-powered equipment; component assemblies; and component systems used in automotive, construction and specialpurpose equipment powered by internal combustion engines.

2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?

I was online, just looking for better jobs, and I came across the FDNY job posting. I applied four times for this position because it was the only one available at this time; I guess they got tired of me applying for it and gave it to me during the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?

One New Year’s Eve, I was working as an emergency crew mechanic, and a random kid walked up to me and said, “Hey, excuse me, can I take a picture with you?” I was wearing my Fleet Services jacket, and I told him, “I’m not a firefighter.” He said, “You are just as important as a firefighter.” Up to this day, I keep smiling when I tell anyone this story.

4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?

We are FDNY is like a big happy family—with everyone having a different job title—that helps all New Yorkers during an emergency.

5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)? Making people around me happy is my superpower.

6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?

My role is to make sure any apparatus at FDNY I’m working on is functioning properly so it’s ready to respond to any emergency without issues. n

FDNY, NYC AND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ANNOUNCE E-BIKE AND BATTERY TRADE-IN PROGRAM

In an effort to help reduce the number of unsafe micromobility devices and lithium-ion batteries used by New York City's food delivery workers, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Transportation officials announced the final details of a trade-in pilot program that will launch in 2025. The details of the program, which will be the first of its kind in the United States, were announced on Oct. 23 at Cooper Square in Manhattan. "Getting uncertified lithium-ion batteries and devices off our city's streets is critically important, and this trade-in program will help do just that," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "We are grateful to partner with the Department of Transportation on this out-of-thebox initiative that we know will make our city safer for delivery workers, our first responders and the public." n

THE FDNY HONORS THE 58TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 23RD STREET FIRE

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker joined members, families and friends on Oct. 17 for a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the 23rd Street Fire.

The 23rd Street Fire, which happened on Oct. 17, 1966, was the greatest loss of life in the Department's history prior to the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The ground floor of the Wonder Drug Store, located on the corner of 23rd Street and Broadway in Manhattan, collapsed during a five-alarm fire that originated in a storage area.

Twelve members of nearly every rank—from deputy chief to probationary firefighter—made the Supreme Sacrifice that day. We will Never Forget Deputy Chief Thomas A. Reilly and Firefighter William F. McCarron, both of Division 3; Battalion Chief Walter J. Higgins of Battalion 7; Lieutenant Joseph Priore, Firefighter James V. Galanaugh, Firefighter Joseph Kelly, Firefighter Daniel L. Rey and Firefighter Bernard A. Tepper, all of Engine Company 18; and Lieutenant John J. Finley, Firefighter John G. Berry, Firefighter Rudolph F. Kaminsky and Firefighter Carl Lee, all of Ladder Company 7. n

podcast highlights

A look back at 50 years of paramedicine in New York City with FDNY Dr. Tony Shallash

THE WRAP

The FDNY and the Police Athletic League of New York (PAL) teamed up for a series of educational events for Fire Prevention Month in Harlem, the Bronx and on Staten Island. The initiative engaged hundreds of students from grades 2-5 at each event, teaching them the importance of fire safety and promoting careers with the FDNY. The events were made possible in part with support from the FDNY Foundation, the official nonprofit organization of the Department. Scan the QR code above to see more photos from the events. n

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“I can give back to my community. I can do something important.”
Throwback FDNY to 1849, when the San Francisco Fire Department is organized by members of the FDNY; to 1883, when the sliding pole was introduced in the FDNY; and to 1974, when the first class of paramedics in New York City graduated.
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