MyFDNY NEWS
FDNY COMMISSIONER ROBERT S. TUCKER ANNOUNCES FIRST LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRE DEATH IN NEW YORK CITY IN 2025: ‘THESE FIRES ARE TREACHEROUS’
The FDNY is urging New Yorkers to remain vigilant about lithium-ion battery safety following a fire in Queens on July 4 that killed a 76-yearold woman, marking the first fatality caused by a lithium-ion battery fire in 2025 in New York City.
On July 8, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker provided an update on the 2-alarm fire, which occurred inside a pizza shop. The woman was using the restroom inside the pizzeria when the battery on an e-bike inside exploded. The woman was transported to a hospital, where she later died.
“We are working so hard every day in the FDNY to message that e-mobility devices do not belong inside,” FDNY Commissioner Tucker said. “You
FDNY
Spotlight
FDNY WELCOMES NEWEST PROBATIONARY EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS AT GRADUATION IN BROOKLYN
Page 2
JULY 2025
FIRE COMMISSIONER Robert S. Tucker
FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER Mark Guerra
CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT John M. Esposito
We Are FDNY
MEET FIREFIGHTER
DAVID NOVICK, LADDER 121
Page 4
FDNY AND FDNY FOUNDATION LAUNCH 2026 CALENDAR OF HEROES
After a four-year hiatus, the FDNY and the FDNY Foundation launched the 2026 Calendar of Heroes on June 26 at a kickoff event at One Vanderbilt in Manhattan.
The iconic calendar, in partnership with Firehouse Subs, showcases some of the FDNY's bravest and More on Page 2
SCAN ME
SCAN ME
Access the MyFDNY Portal by logging on with your single sign-on (SSO) credentials. If you experience technical difficulties with SSO or multifactor authentication (MFA), call the BTDS help desk at 718-999-2611 or email BTDS@fdny.nyc.gov.
The FDNY Insider is now MyFDNY News! This monthly publication will be available in print and online.
FDNY COMMISSIONER ROBERT S. TUCKER ANNOUNCES FIRST LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRE DEATH IN NEW YORK CITY IN 2025: ‘THESE FIRES ARE TREACHEROUS’
Continued from Page 1
cannot charge them inside, and you must buy certified UL batteries. These fires are treacherous. They move very quickly. They are very hot.”
The FDNY reminds New Yorkers to charge and store lithium-ion batteries and micromobility devices outside, wherever possible. Go to FDNYSmart.org for safety information. n
FDNY AND FDNY FOUNDATION LAUNCH 2026 CALENDAR OF HEROES
Continued from Page 1
I’m always impressed when I get to meet the youth who take part in the Police Athletic League’s programs. On July 9, I stopped in Harlem for the opening ceremony of PAL’s PLAYSTREETS initiative.
The FDNY is proud to support PAL’s mission to promote public safety and strong communities.
Follow FDNY Commissioner
Robert S. Tucker
FDNY Commissioner
Robert S. Tucker on July 8 announced the first lithium-ion battery fire fatality reported in 2025. The 2-alarm fire happened July 4 at a pizzeria in Queens. Read more about this tragic fire on Page 1.
most dedicated first responders.
"There's a lot of enthusiasm about this calendar, and I'm really excited to bring it back," FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. "I think it's really important that we highlight fitness in the FDNY. The more physically fit you are, the better you can do your job."
Matthew DiLiberto, Chairman of the FDNY Foundation, said: "We're so thrilled to bring this back. It's been a long time coming. There has been a lot of requests for it, and thanks to Firehouse Subs for wanting to be a part of bringing it back."
Mike Hancock, President of Firehouse Subs, U.S. & Canada, added: "As a brand founded by firefighters, this is something obviously very near and dear to our hearts. What better way to make a splash in New York and partnering with the FDNY, supporting an amazing cause like the Calendar of Heroes."
Dena vonWerssowetz, Chief Marketing
Officer
of Firehouse Subs, said: "Since our founding, Firehouse Subs has been committed to supporting the brave men and women who keep our communities safe. Partnering with the FDNY on this year's calendar launch is an incredible opportunity to give back to the nation's largest fire department—ensuring these heroes are well-equipped, well-resourced and well-fed!"
This year, 25 firefighters, EMTs and paramedics are included in the calendar, which is back for the first time since 2021. Proceeds from the calendar directly support the FDNY Foundation’s lifesaving mission to enhance fire and life safety education, training initiatives and resources for the FDNY. A $25 donation to the FDNY Foundation secures your copy of the 2026 Calendar of Heroes. It is available now at FDNYShop.com. n
The FDNY held a graduation ceremony June 17 for the first class of 2025 probationary emergency medical technicians. The event was held at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn.
“Being an EMT in New York City is an exciting and challenging job,” FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. “For most people, needing emergency medical assistance is among the worst days of their lives. You are their beacon of hope, and the work you will do will save lives. As you head out to your new assignments across this great city, know that the FDNY supports you in all that you do. We are grateful that you are here. Congratulations to all of you on the start of what I hope will be an amazing career with FDNY EMS.”
Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields said: “To our newest members, prepare to embark on a journey unlike any other. I need you to remember the profound significance of this path you have chosen. You are not just entering a profession; you are stepping into a calling that demands courage, compassion and an unyielding spirit.”
The class trained for 16 weeks at the EMS Academy at Fort Totten. Training skills include CPR; patient medical and trauma assessments; oxygen and ventilation skills; management of hypotension and fractures; spinal immobilization and emergency childbirth; and emergency vehicle operation.
The probationary EMTs were assigned to units throughout New York City. n
SCAN ME
(1) The FDNY and the NYPD took part in a month-long blood drive competition, with the goal of generating awareness of the need for blood during the critical summer months. The competition ran June 23 through July 20. On June 2, the New York Blood Center declared a blood emergency following a sharp and sustained drop in blood donations in New York and New Jersey. (2) On July 15, the NYC Emergency Management’s HERricane Class of 2025 visited Brooklyn Borough Command and the quarters of Engine 207/Ladder 110 to learn more about FDNY operations and receive CPR training. The HERricane Program is designed for women ages 16-22 who are interested in careers in emergency man agement. (3) A few helping hands! On July 4, members from Engine 151 helped eight ducklings that fell through a grate into a storm drain on Staten Island. A civilian reported the mishap to firefighters, who used a portable ladder to reach the ducklings. Happily, all of the ducklings were reunited with their mother. (4) The FDNY proudly participated in the Answer the Call Block Party, an annual event honoring the families of fallen FDNY, NYPD and PAPD members. Open to the public, the event featured family friendly activities, live performances and demonstrations by the FDNY and NYPD, bringing the community together in support of our fallen heroes. (5) On July 17, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker and Department members cheered on those participating in the Wounded Warrior Project’s Soldier Ride as they went past Department Headquarters in Brooklyn. This ride featured approximately 75 wounded veterans who were accompanied by members of the FDNY, NYPD and PAPD. New York City was the first part of the three-day ride. (6) The FDNY Vulcan Society hosted its 3-on-3 basketball tournament on July 19 at C aptain Vernon A. Richard High School. The annual event brings the community together for a day of fun, connection and a friendly hoops competition. n
MEET FIREFIGHTER DAVID NOVICK, LADDER 121
1. What is your name, title, and how long have you worked at the FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?
My name is David Novick, and I am a firefighter at Ladder 121 in Far Rockaway, Queens. I joined FDNY in 2017. For the last seven years, in addition to serving as a regular truck company, we have been a surf rescue unit, trained to rescue people in the ocean and in ice-related emergencies. Additionally, we are classified as a SOC support unit, so we have ad ditional technical rescue and Hazmat training.
2. What called you to a life of public service at the FDNY?
I love helping people. I enjoy being a part of a community where I can make a difference and aid people in need. It is an incredible and thrilling undertaking when we can assist someone in severe distress and transform their situation into a positive outcome.
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at the FDNY?
One of my most memorable moments in the FDNY, so far, was while I was a probationary firefighter. I was asked to join the Stephen Siller 9/11 Memorial Run, where we honored the 343 fallen members lost on September 11th, 2001. It was mind-blowing to see how many people from around the world gathered to support such an extraordinary cause. This event was truly a humbling honor to be a part of, marching alongside an amazing group of individuals.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
We Are FDNY echoes that regardless of your background, race or religion, we are all part of the same united team and geared toward accomplishing the same task—to get the job done to the best of our ability and save lives.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
My best quality is staying calm under pressure. Critical thinking under intense scenarios is an essential part of this job, along with being a solid communicator.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
My role as a firefighter supports public safety, whether it’s handling a basic emergency—such as people stuck in an elevator—or an event that’s more complex, such as a fire, a water rescue or an EMS run. But no matter the situation, we are doing everything in our power to help and save people. When the City of New York is in need, the FDNY will always be there to lend the assistance required. n
THE FDNY AT MACY’S 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW
FDNY PROMOTES EMS OFFICERS AND PARAMEDICS AT CEREMONY IN QUEENS
never just a job.
a calling—a
podcast highlights
THE WRAP
The FDNY held a graduation ceremony for Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety Class of 2025 on June 27. The 2025 class is the 18th to graduate from the FDNY High School. Watch the livestream of the graduation and check out a photo gallery by scanning the QR code. Congratulations to all the graduates! n
The FDNY promoted EMS members to officer and paramedic ranks on June 30 at a ceremony at St. John’s University in Queens. “Working in FDNY EMS is
It’s
constant whirlwind of challenges and triumphs,” Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields said at the promotion. The newly promoted members will be assigned to units throughout New York City. n
SCAN ME
SCAN ME
Cracking the code of lithium-ion batteries with FDNY Chief of Safety James Canty and Battalion Chiefs Ray Coyle and Matt Quinn
“Come in with an open mind, come ready to learn.” - JoinFDNY Podcast Episode 30
Throwback FDNY to the 2025 NYC Fire Museum Golf Outing at the Muttontown Club on Long Island
SCAN ME
SCAN ME