Official Guide for Fire and Life Safety FDNY (pdf file)

Summary of the Official Guide for Fire and Life Safety (FDNY NY)

This FDNY Official Guide provides critical fire and life safety information for New York City residents. It includes guidelines on preventing fires, responding to emergencies, and maintaining safety equipment. Below are the key highlights:

1. Emergencies & Fire Extinguishers

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies such as fires, smoke, gas odors, and medical emergencies.
• Fire extinguisher use: Follow the PASS method:
  • Pull the pin
  • Aim at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the handle
  • Sweep side-to-side
• Types of extinguishers:
  • Class A (wood, paper)
  • Class B (grease, gasoline, oil)
  • Class C (electrical fires)
• Monthly maintenance: Inspect for damage, ensure proper charge, and keep extinguishers accessible.

2. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

• Working alarms save lives!
• Install alarms in sleeping areas and every level of your home.
• Test alarms monthly, replace every 10 years, and keep them clean.
• When alarms sound:
  • CO alarm → Get out immediately and call 911.
  • Smoke alarm → Follow your escape plan.
• Interconnected alarms are recommended so all alarms sound together.

3. Escape Planning

• Know your building type (fireproof vs. non-fireproof) to determine the safest escape strategy.
• Identify two exits per sleeping area and clear escape routes.
• If in a fireproof building: Stay inside unless in immediate danger; seal doors, turn off A/C, and call 911.
• Practice home fire drills in the dark to simulate real conditions.

4. Top Four Causes of Fire & Prevention Tips

1. Cooking Fires

   • Never leave cooking unattended.
   • Keep flammable materials away from the stove.
   • Do not use water on grease fires; smother with a lid or baking soda.

2. Electrical Fires

   • Avoid overloading outlets and using damaged cords.
   • Use GFCI outlets near water sources.
   • Large appliances should be plugged directly into wall outlets.

3. Smoking-Related Fires

   • Use deep, stable ashtrays and douse cigarette butts with water.
   • Never smoke in bed or when drowsy.
   • Do not smoke near oxygen tanks.

4. Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

   • Only use manufacturer-approved chargers.
   • Do not charge under pillows or on beds.
   • If a battery overheats, leaks, or makes unusual noises, stop using it immediately.
   • Battery disposal: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash—use proper recycling.

5. Special Safety Considerations

• Children: Teach them that fire is not a toy and how to follow escape plans.
• Seniors: Higher fire risk—avoid loose clothing while cooking, extinguish smoking materials properly, and ensure working alarms.
• Holiday & Seasonal Safety:
  • Winter: Space heaters must be 3 feet away from flammable materials; never use stoves or ovens for heating.
  • Summer: Check grills before use and keep fireworks away (fireworks are illegal in NYC).

6. Additional Resources

• The guide encourages following @FDNY for updates and visiting FDNYSmart.org for videos and detailed resources.
• Escape Plan Map: Residents should create and post a home escape plan.
• Call 311 for non-emergencies and 911 for immediate threats.

Conclusion

This guide emphasizes fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and life safety measures for NYC residents. Regular alarm maintenance, safe cooking habits, proper battery disposal, and escape planning are key takeaways. Practicing these safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related injuries and fatalities.

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