MyFDNY News: March 2025

MyFDNY NEWS

MA R CH 2 0 2 5 FIRE COMMISSIONER Robert S. Tucker FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER Mark Guerra CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT John M. Esposito

We Are FDNY

MEET FIREFIGHTER ARIANA JACKSON ENGINE 317 Page 4

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THE FDNY TAKES ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL PARKING AT FIRE HYDRANTS FOLLOWING FATAL FIRES IN THE BRONX, BROOKLYN To combat rampant illegal parking around fire hydrants, the FDNY issued its first-ever criminal summons following a fatal fire in which a hydrant closest to the fire was blocked by a vehicle.

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker on Feb. 28 announced the Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention issued a criminal court summons that resulted in a $4,000 fine for a fire code violation. The summons was issued to an individual who blocked a fire hydrant at a double fatal fire in the Bronx.

On Feb. 12, FDNY units responded to a fire on Anthony Avenue. The fire quickly escalated to a third-alarm assignment. A parked vehicle was blocking the nearest hydrant and primary water source, which was located directly across the street from the fire building. Two people died in the fire, which was caused by a space heater.

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Spotlight

DEPARTMENT LEADERSHIP ATTENDS THE 7TH ANNUAL GLITZ-GLAM-GIVE BRUNCH Page 2

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Mayor Eric Adams and FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announce fire and life safety initiative in honor of 100th anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week Mayor Eric Adams and FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker declared 2025 as "Fire Prevention Year" in New York City in honor of the 100th anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week. The announcement was made March 13 inside the quarters of Engine 230 in Brooklyn.

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plus Applause

FDNY TECHNOLOGISTS ARE KEEPING NEW YORK CITY SAFE FROM CYBER THREATS Page 3

. MyFDNY Dashboard

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. Women's History Month 2025

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. Podcast Highlights

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. The Wrap

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THE FDNY TAKES ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL PARKING AT FIRE HYDRANTS FOLLOWING FATAL FIRES IN THE BRONX, BROOKLYN Continued from Page 1

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The Bronx fire marked the second time in three days in which a fire hydrant was blocked by an illegally parked vehicle. On Feb. 9, two vehicles obstructed the two closest hydrants at another fatal fire in Brooklyn.

On March 13, the FDNY responded to a five-alarm fire in the Bronx. After arriving on scene, units reported a vehicle was again blocking a fire hydrant. FDNY Commissioner Tucker said another criminal court summons was issued to the vehicle’s owner.

“Seconds count in an emergency, and blocking a fire hydrant is a selfish decision that can kill people and endanger FDNY members as they work to save residents,” Fire Commissioner Tucker said. “Our Bureau of Fire Prevention took decisive action following the fatal multiple-alarm fire in the Bronx, and now you are seeing the results. I hope this significant fine sends a clear message to New Yorkers: Don’t block a fire hydrant.”

Section 507.5.4 of the New York City Fire Code makes it illegal to render fire hydrants inaccessible or inopera-

ble. This is the first time this code has been used for a blocked hydrant.

It is illegal to park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant in New York City. New Yorkers are urged to do their part in keeping hydrants clear. If you see a blocked hydrant, report it by calling 311 or going to portal.311.nyc.gov. n

Mayor Eric Adams and FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announce fire and life safety initiative in honor of 100th anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week Continued from Page 1 We talk about fire safety education a lot. It’s a critical part of the FDNY’s mission. On March 1, the FDNY Foundation and the Department’s Fire Safety Education Unit helped launch J.Crew’s new FDNY collection and deliver safety education information to those who attended the event.

Follow FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker on

Fire Commissioner Tucker also announced the release of Community Risk Assessments for all 59 of New York City's Community Boards, which provide a detailed analysis of each neighborhood's emergency preparedness and vulnerability to fire incidents.

"We have relentlessly worked to get unsafe e-bikes, e-scooters and lithium-ion batteries off our streets—and worked with communities to educate them on heater safety and the importance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors," Mayor Adams said. "The FDNY will continue to host thousands of public education events across the five boroughs, providing targeted fire prevention and life safety resources to 100 blocks with the highest risk of fires. We are urging New Yorkers to protect

themselves through education."

"The FDNY is committed to empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to prevent fires and protect lives," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "Through over 1,000 public education events, our dedicated teams will continue to engage with New Yorkers across all five boroughs.

By focusing on the 100 most fire-prone blocks and providing tailored Community Risk Assessments, we are strengthening our efforts to keep every neighborhood safer. Together, we can ensure that fire prevention remains a priority every day of the year."

Fire Prevention Week, which began in 1925, is observed annually in the U.S. This year, it will take place Oct. 5-11. n

@FDNYFC

DEPARTMENT LEADERSHIP ATTENDS THE 7TH ANNUAL GLITZ-GLAM-GIVE BRUNCH

$4,000 The FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention issued a $4,000 fine for a fire code violation after an individual illegally parked in front of a fire hydrant in the Bronx in February as FDNY units responded to a fatal three-alarm fire.

MyFDNY CALENDAR SCAN ME

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS 26 May | Memorial Day 19 Jun. | Juneteenth 04 Jul. | Independence Day UPCOMING PAYDAYS 28 Mar., 11 Apr. and 25 Apr.

On March 8, FDNY officials attended the 7th annual Glitz-Glam-Give Brunch in honor of Women’s History Month. The yearly event raises money for organizations that help care for sick first responders. The FDNY thanks the Department’s Family Assistance Unit for organizing an event that continues to give back to those who need it most. n

FDNY

Women’s History Month 2025

Throughout the FDNY’s history, women have played vital roles in protecting and serving the people of New York City.

Their strength, resilience and unwavering dedication are at the heart of our lifesaving mission. In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked our female members what fuels their passion for the job, what keeps them going in the toughest moments and what inspires them to serve. Their words reflect the courage, determination and deep commitment that define the FDNY.

Women’s History Month 2025

C arline G ermain

J et E gyud

J ackie S zpunt

D irector of Human Resources Bureau of Fire Prevention

Firefighter Ladder 12

Firefighter Ladder 123

I feel that I have always been there for the city that has always been with me.

What drives me forward when things get tough at a fire is simply knowing that I have a specific role, and it needs to get done.

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For me, the glass is never half empty.

It’s refillable.

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I approach my job as my ministry, which unequivocally requires unbounded patience and dedication.

In the moments when circumstances would typically call for despair, it is this very commitment that ushers me through any obstacle. For me, the glass is never half empty.

It’s refillable.

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I feel that I have always been there for the city that has always been with me. Starting as a lifeguard, to an EMT, to now a firefighter, I’ve never had a job that wasn’t for the city.

What keeps me going through the toughest moments are, of course, my family, my house—who depend on me as I depend on them—and my girlfriend (who is an FDNY EMT), who will be promoted to firefighter soon.

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Before becoming a New York City firefighter, I was as lifeguard at Rockaway Beach. While I do have a passion for this line of work, I have always had a deep-seated sense of duty. What drives me forward when things get tough at a fire is simply knowing that I have a specific role, and it needs to get done. I wouldn’t let myself live it down if I didn’t get my job done.

L aitrice E dwards

A shley D e J esus

S hamika G onzalez

K elly C arr

Division Chief

Dispatcher

EMT

Fire Code Counsel Bureau of Legal Affairs/ Code Development Unit

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I am a piece of an amazing organization known as the FDNY.

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What drives my strength, resilience and dedication as I serve the residents and visitors is knowing that every day, I am a part of a bigger cause. People rely on the FDNY every day for many different reasons, and we are always there to support and provide services. I am a piece of an amazing organization known as the FDNY. What inspires me is my grandmother, an amazing woman who maintained a family of four kids and a wonderful husband all while working and retrieving four degrees. Now, I have my tough moments, but I think of other women who sacrificed for me to be here. It makes me push forward and push others to do the same.

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Knowing that I play a crucial role in connecting people to lifesaving assistance gives me purpose every day.

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My strength, resilience and dedication come from knowing that every call I take has the potential to make a difference in someone’s life. Even in the toughest moments, I remind myself that I am the calm voice guiding people through their emergencies, providing reassurance and help when they need it most. The fast pace and unpredictability can be challenging, but the impact of my work and the support of my fellow dispatchers keeps me going. Knowing that I play a crucial role in connecting people to lifesaving assistance gives me purpose every day.

My strength comes from my faith and the values my parents instilled in me. I see myself in the people I service, which deepens my commitment and drive. No challenge can shake my passion—I build strong bonds and keep pushing forward. Knowing I’m making a difference fuels me, even in the toughest moments.

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Knowing I’m making a difference fuels me, even in the toughest moments.

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Together, we make an impact—sometimes small, sometimes unnoticed and sometimes great.

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My motivation aligns with the mission of the Bureau of Fire Prevention to cultivate a safer city for residents, visitors and our first responders. As Fire Code Counsel, I get to work with many like-minded people throughout the Department.

Together, we make an impact— sometimes small, sometimes unnoticed and sometimes great.

When I hit a roadblock, I like knowing I can always find members willing to help me.

FDNY Celebrating Women’s History Month This Women’s History Month, the FDNY is proud to honor the extraordinary members across all units who serve with dedication, strength and resilience.

From firefighters, EMTs and paramedics to dispatchers, fire inspectors and administrative professionals, these women play a vital role in our mission to protect life and property in New York City.

And they are breaking barriers in our Department. Recently, Michele Fitzsimmons became the first Deputy Chief in Fire Operations. Her promotion signifies a ceilingshattering moment in FDNY history and serves as a model for what’s possible for women in the Department.

Chief Fitzsimmons—and so many women like her in the FDNY—is inspiring.

We are grateful for the contributions of women in the Department every day. This month, we celebrate their achievements and recognize the path they continue to pave for future generations.

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker

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(1) On March 5, two FDNY members were among the 25 graduates of the fourth and fifth cohorts of the NYC Cyber Academy. The Cyber Academy graduates are on the front lines of keeping our city and its government safe from constant online threats. Congratulations to Deepak Mathur and Melad Shenouda! (2) The FDNY marked 100 years of service from Rescue 2 at a centennial celebration on March 1 in Brooklyn. The celebration held inside of firehouse quarters included members, alumni, family and friends. Rescue 2 went into service on March 1, 1925, providing service to Brooklyn and all of New York City. (3) On March 12, members of the Australian Fire and Emergency Services visited the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall’s Island on March 12 for a firsthand look at how the Department operates.

Officials discussed deployment strategies for major fires, training and the future and firefighting. (4) FDNY officials attended the annual EMS FDNY Help Fund Gala on March 11. The fund was established in 2017 after the Line of Duty Death of EMT Yadira Arroyo. Since 2018, the fund has provided Department members with more than $1 million in services. This year’s event recognized the Honor Emergency Fund as the “Partner of the Year” for helping FDNY members with financial assistance. (5) Runners representing the FDNY competed against runners from other New York City agencies for the Commissioner’s Cup in the New York Road Runners United Airlines NYC Half Marathon. Congratulations to the Bravest for finishing in second place! (6) Under the lights at MSG! FDNY Boxing faced off against first responders from around the world in the 2nd annual International Battle of the Badges on March 14 at Madison Square Garden. Members fought hard to protect the Department’s shield and raise money for charity. n

We Are FDNY

FDNY'S AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS GATHER AT HEADQUARTERS FOR MEET-AND-GREET WITH FIRE COMMISSIONER

MEET FIREFIGHTER ARIANA JACKSON ENGINE 317 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 Ariana Jackson, and I am a firefighter. I joined FDNY 11 years ago as an EMT in 2013; a couple years later, I was promoted to FDNY paramedic and stationed in Brownsville, Brooklyn. In 2017, I was promoted again and sworn in as a New York City firefighter. I was assigned to Engine 317 in St. Albans and have been here for the past six years. I am a proud engine woman, and my primary work responsibility is to deliver water to the fire. I’m either operating a handline on the nozzle team or supplying water from the rig as an engine chauffeur. As a CFR engine, we deliver patient care in medical and trauma emergencies.

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2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY? I’ve always been an empathetic and compassionate person. Helping people just comes naturally to me. Also, God did not give me a spirit of fear, so there was a loud calling to join New York City’s bravest.

3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY? One of my most memorable moments while working at FDNY was my first time pumping water. Pretty fresh out of chauffeur school, I get a ticket at 4 a.m. for the phone alarm. We were first-due engine to a fire in a private dwelling with reports of people trapped. With a spare rig and a junior back step, this was my first time pumping, and at a second-alarm fire. Nothing can compare to that feeling of knowing an entire operation depends on you. Water is the most important element in firefighting. The fire was brought under control, and we all went home.

I’ll never forget that night, especially the handshake I got from my captain.

In an effort to continue to build on lessons learned in embracing the values of diversity and inclusion, the FDNY held an affiliated organization meet-and-greet on Jan. 9 at FDNY Headquarters under the leadership of Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker. The gathering was designed to bring together leadership of the FDNY’s 54 affiliated organizations and highlight their contributions to the Department and New York City community. The event also promoted a culture where everyone—regardless of their race, gender, religion or background—feels valued and empowered. A key theme that emerged during the event was how diversity directly enhances the Department’s ability to serve the city.

A diverse team can build deeper connections with the communities it serves. n

podcast highlights

4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?

To me, We are FDNY means that we all make this department what it is. We are all parts of a whole. We are your neighbors, your friends and family. We’re just like you—just people from all walks of life in this melting pot called New York City.

5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?

My superpower is my ability to adapt and overcome in any given situation. I rely on my faith and inner strength to push me through anything.

6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY? My different roles and experiences have shaped me into the firefighter that I am. I stay active, stay true to myself, and people can relate to me. The more knowledgeable I am, the better I can serve my community. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, living in Queens now. This is my home city. I took an oath to protect life and property—and that’s exactly what I do. n

FDNY CALENDAR OF HEROES RETURNS FOR 2026

Fighting duct fires with FDNY Battalion Chief Anthony Pascocello

“Can you fill these boots?” - JoinFDNY Podcast Episode 26

Throwback FDNY to 1952, when Victor Collymore is appointed to the FDNY, where he would help bridge the gap between the Department and the communities it served.

THE WRAP

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The FDNY Calendar of Heroes, a signature fundraiser for the FDNY Foundation, is returning for 2026! This year’s calendar will feature fire and EMS members who are fit, fearless and ready to inspire. They will be just some of the Department’s most dedicated first responders who embody strength, resilience and top-tier wellness.

Interested uniformed members should contact their firehouse or EMS station for casting call information. Stay tuned for more information later this summer! Funds raised from the Calendar of Heroes directly support the FDNY Foundation’s mission to better protect New York City. n

The tradition continues! The FDNY proudly marched in the 264th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Manhattan on March 17. Check out our complete photo gallery from the parade by scanning the QR code above! n