New York City Mayor Eric Adams, along with FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker and NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue, announced citywide measures to mitigate fire risks due to ongoing drought conditions.
As reported by The City of New York, permits for fireworks displays and open flames have been suspended.
NYC Parks has also canceled previously issued permits for these activities in city parks, while the FDNY will review permits for events on streets and waterways individually.
The city aims to provide alternative solutions for impacted events.
Mayor Adams stated: “The measures we’re announcing today will help prevent additional fires, protect our natural spaces and our air, and keep New Yorkers safe.”
The FDNY has formed its first-ever Brush Fire Task Force in response to a surge in brush fires.
From November 1 to November 14, 2024, the FDNY responded to 271 brush fires, the highest number ever recorded in a two-week period in the city.
The task force, which includes fire marshals, fire inspectors, and drone units, will focus on rapid response, investigations, and data sharing to prevent future incidents.
FDNY Commissioner Tucker emphasized the importance of public cooperation: “The FDNY has responded to more than 300 brush fires already this month, and we need the public to remain vigilant and conserve water.”
The city has implemented new fire safety protocols and issued water conservation tips to mitigate risks.
Grilling and fireworks are banned in parks, and New Yorkers are urged to dispose of cigarette butts properly and refrain from using open flames near dry vegetation.
Drought-specific water conservation measures include limiting water usage during daily activities, reporting open fire hydrants, and fixing leaks.
NYC’s water management system has reduced daily water usage from 1.5 billion gallons in 1979 to approximately 1.1 billion gallons today.
Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi remarked, “We must all do our part to keep each other, and our public realm, safe from fire.”
New York City is currently under a drought warning, the second stage in its drought response plan.
If conditions worsen, the city may declare a drought emergency, requiring stricter water usage regulations.
DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala stressed the urgency of collective action: “Suspending permits for fireworks displays and open flames is an essential step in reducing the heightened risk of dangerous brush fires.”
The city’s reservoir system is currently at 63% capacity, significantly below normal levels.
This situation has prompted additional conservation measures and paused infrastructure projects like the Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project.
New York City has introduced emergency measures to address fire risks and drought conditions.
Permits for fireworks and open flames have been suspended, and the FDNY has launched a Brush Fire Task Force.
Officials urge residents to follow safety guidelines and conserve water as the city faces historic drought levels.
Key actions include banning grilling in parks, properly disposing of cigarettes, and reporting open fire hydrants.
The city’s reservoirs are at 63% capacity, prompting additional conservation steps.
Officials caution that stricter measures could follow if conditions worsen.
