FDNY issues warning about fire risk for colder months

CITYWIDE — THE FIRE DEPARTMENT on Wednesday released a new public service announcement urging New Yorkers to take precautions this winter to prevent fires and protect the city’s elderly, following several fire fatalities involving older adults.

The department in particular urged caution around the usage of space heaters, which should never be left unattended or around flammable materials, and extension cords, which should be used only for short spans of time and never for heavy appliances like space heaters or microwaves. 

“These recent incidents underscore how quickly a small hazard can escalate into a life-threatening emergency,” said FDNY Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn. “Being fire safe means thinking ahead. It means making small choices every day that protect the people you love most. These steps save lives — and together, we can prevent the next tragedy.”

Smoking cigarettes in bed and unattended space heaters continue to be leading causes of fires.

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