New York City Council
Committee on Fire and Emergency Management
Sep 18, 2024
·
10:00 AM
1 hr 26 min
Summary
A hearing on FDNY's search, rescue, and fire investigation procedures.
Discussions covered:
- The department's operations in various emergency scenarios
- Staffing levels for fire marshals
- The canine unit's capabilities and training
- The lithium-ion battery task force's inspections and enforcement
- The fireworks enforcement task force
The committee chair, Joann Ariola, expressed concern about potentially low staffing levels for fire marshals and indicated she would advocate for increased resources during upcoming budget discussions.
Features testimony from FDNY officials, including the Chief Fire Marshal and Chief of Special Operations, and a demonstration from the FDNY canine unit.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Joann Ariola's opening remarks on FDNY's search, rescue, and fire investigative procedures
Council Member Joann Ariola, chair of the Fire And Emergency Management Committee, delivers opening remarks for a hearing on the oversight of FDNY's search, rescue, and fire investigative procedures. She …
0:00:21
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103 sec
Introduction and overview of FDNY testimony
Daniel Flynn, Chief Fire Marshal of New York City, introduces himself and his colleagues to the Fire and Emergency Management Committee. He outlines the purpose of the testimony, which is …
0:02:37
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20 sec
Overview of FDNY search and rescue operations
The testimony outlines the various aspects of search and rescue operations conducted by the FDNY. It emphasizes the importance of these operations in firefighting and the challenges faced by firefighters. …
0:02:59
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51 sec
Structure and capabilities of the Special Operations Command
The testimony details the structure, training, and capabilities of the Special Operations Command (SOC) within the FDNY. SOC is a specialized unit focused on complex rescue operations for both civilians …
0:03:51
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97 sec
FDNY Marine Operation Command capabilities
The testimony outlines the capabilities and responsibilities of the FDNY Marine Operation Command. This unit is responsible for water-based emergency responses and rescues around New York City. - The Marine …
0:05:35
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33 sec
FDNY Robotics Unit capabilities
The testimony briefly introduces the FDNY Robotics Unit and its role in enhancing situational awareness during emergency responses. - The Robotics Unit provides responders with exceptional visual and situational awareness. …
0:06:09
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20 sec
Overview of the Bureau of Fire Investigation
The testimony introduces the Bureau of Fire Investigation and outlines the role and responsibilities of fire marshals within the FDNY. - Fire marshals are law enforcement officers who investigate the …
0:06:31
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48 sec
Fire marshal training and qualifications
The testimony outlines the process of becoming a fire marshal in the FDNY, including the requirements and training involved. - Uniform firefighters with a minimum of 5 years of field …
0:07:19
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42 sec
Fire investigation techniques and procedures
The testimony describes the various techniques and procedures used by fire marshals in conducting fire investigations. - Fire marshals employ a variety of investigative methods to determine the cause and …
0:08:02
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20 sec
FDNY Canine Unit in fire investigations and rescues
The testimony highlights the specialized role of the FDNY Canine Unit in both fire investigations and rescue operations. - The canine unit uses specially trained dogs to identify accelerants and …
0:08:23
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64 sec
Conclusion of FDNY testimony on search and rescue operations
Daniel Flynn concludes his testimony by summarizing the key points and expressing pride in the work of the FDNY's specialized units. - Flynn thanks the committee for the opportunity to …
0:09:27
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18 sec
Introduction and acknowledgment of FDNY's work
Council Member Joann Ariola opens the session by expressing gratitude and pride for the Fire Department's work. She also acknowledges the presence of her colleague, Council Member Lynn Schulman. - …
0:09:46
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9 sec
Overview of FDNY search and rescue operations
Council Member Ariola inquires about the circumstances and types of emergencies where the FDNY engages in search and rescue operations. Chief Malcolm Moore explains that these operations occur in various …
0:09:56
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63 sec
Units involved in FDNY search and rescue operations
Council Member Ariola inquires about the specific units that conduct search and rescue operations. Chief Moore explains that all fire units are trained for search and rescue, with specialized units …
0:11:00
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55 sec
Qualifications and training for FDNY search and rescue personnel
Council Member Ariola inquires about the qualifications and training requirements for FDNY personnel working in search and rescue units. Chief Moore explains the basic and advanced training processes, as well …
0:11:55
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96 sec
Use of drones in FDNY search and rescue operations
Council Member Ariola inquires about the FDNY's use of drones in search and rescue operations. Chief Moore explains the implementation and various applications of drone technology in the department's operations. …
0:13:31
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72 sec
Water rescues and beach safety measures
Council Member Ariola discusses water rescues and beach safety with Chief Moore, focusing on coordination with other agencies, common incidents, and public education efforts. - FDNY coordinates with NYPD, Parks …
0:14:43
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159 sec
FDNY boat deployment for water rescues
Council Member Ariola inquires about the deployment of FDNY boats for water rescues. Chief Moore provides details on the number of boats, their locations, and operational considerations. - FDNY has …
0:17:23
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130 sec
Council Member Zhuang discusses firefighter safety with FDNY Chief Moore
Council Member Susan Zhuang expresses gratitude for FDNY's quick response to a fire in her district and inquires about measures to prevent firefighter injuries during rescues. FDNY Chief of Special …
0:19:42
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80 sec
Councilmember Schulman introduces herself and her district
Councilmember Lynn C. Schulman introduces herself and provides a brief overview of her district, which includes Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, and Richmond Hill. She notes that fires are more common …
0:21:09
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30 sec
Councilmember Schulman inquires about a lithium-ion battery shop incident
Councilmember Schulman brings up a specific incident involving a lithium-ion battery shop in her district that was closed by the FDNY but appears to have reopened. She asks about the …
0:21:40
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38 sec
FDNY's proactive measures and inspections for lithium-ion battery shops
Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn explains the FDNY's proactive approach to inspecting and regulating lithium-ion battery shops, including the establishment of a dedicated task force and their inspection processes. - …
0:22:20
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101 sec
Impact of FDNY's efforts on lithium-ion battery fire incidents
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn presents statistics demonstrating the positive impact of FDNY's efforts on reducing lithium-ion battery fire incidents and related injuries and fatalities. - The number of fires is …
0:24:01
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67 sec
Public education and outreach on lithium-ion battery safety
Councilmember Schulman and Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discuss the FDNY's public education and outreach efforts regarding lithium-ion battery safety, particularly in large residential complexes. - FDNY's fire safety education unit …
0:25:09
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81 sec
Fire safety education and smoke alarm installation services
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn briefly outlines the FDNY's general fire safety education efforts and their partnership with the Red Cross for smoke alarm installation. - FDNY covers various fire safety …
0:26:30
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25 sec
Collaboration between FDNY and City Council members for community outreach
Councilmember Schulman and Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discuss ways to improve collaboration between the FDNY and City Council members for more effective community outreach on fire safety issues. - Councilmember …
0:26:55
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41 sec
Discussion on Fire Marshal staffing levels and budget concerns
Council Member Ariola and Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discuss the current staffing levels of Fire Marshals, comparing them to past numbers and addressing budget concerns. Chief Flynn reports that they …
0:27:38
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3 min
Fire Marshal duties, workload, and operational structure
Council Member Ariola and Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discuss the extensive duties and high workload of Fire Marshals, including the number of fire investigations conducted annually and the various specialized …
0:31:11
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139 sec
Condolences for the recent loss of a Fire Marshal
Council Member Ariola expresses condolences for the recent loss of a Fire Marshal, and Chief Fire Marshal Flynn acknowledges the significant impact of this loss on the department. - The …
0:33:31
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31 sec
Medical requirements and annual physicals for Fire Marshals
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the medical requirements and annual physical examination process for Fire Marshals, addressing recent efforts to ensure all members receive regular check-ups. - Fire Marshals are …
0:34:03
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39 sec
Continuing education and training programs for Fire Marshals
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn outlines the comprehensive continuing education and training programs provided to Fire Marshals after their initial training. The programs cover a wide range of topics and utilize …
0:34:42
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113 sec
Council Member Kevin Riley's introduction and appreciation for FDNY
Council Member Kevin Riley opens by thanking the fire department for their tremendous work in New York City, particularly in the Bronx. He acknowledges the department's efforts in handling horrific …
0:36:35
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33 sec
Psychological challenges and mental health support for FDNY members
Council Member Kevin Riley inquires about the psychological challenges faced by firefighters during and after search and rescue operations. Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn discusses the mental health support available …
0:37:09
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102 sec
Use of technology in FDNY search and rescue efforts
Council Member Kevin Riley asks about the FDNY's use of technologies such as drones and thermal imaging in search and rescue efforts. Chief of Special Operations Malcolm Moore provides information …
0:38:51
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11 sec
Mental performance training for FDNY firefighters
Chief of Special Operations Malcolm Moore elaborates on the mental performance training provided to FDNY firefighters. This training is designed to help firefighters manage stress and maintain composure in high-pressure …
0:39:02
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135 sec
Prioritization in FDNY search and rescue efforts
Council Member Kevin Riley inquires about how firefighters prioritize their search and rescue efforts when faced with multiple victims in a crisis situation. Chief of Special Operations Malcolm Moore explains …
0:41:18
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40 sec
Role of public education in improving community safety
Council Member Kevin Riley asks about the role of public education in improving community safety and assisting fire departments in search and rescue scenarios. FDNY officials emphasize the critical importance …
0:41:59
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76 sec
Council Member Kevin Riley's closing remarks and collaboration proposal
Council Member Kevin Riley concludes the discussion by proposing collaboration with his office to conduct educational workshops in the community. He emphasizes the importance of such outreach for all council …
0:43:14
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12 sec
Fire marshal staffing and partner system
Council Member Ariola inquires about the staffing practices of fire marshals. Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains that fire marshals work in pairs and that there is a minimum of three …
0:43:28
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29 sec
Fire investigation procedures and evidence collection
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the types of evidence collected during fire investigations and the procedures involved. He details the various forms of evidence, from fire debris to video surveillance …
0:43:57
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163 sec
Inter-agency cooperation in fire investigations
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the collaboration between FDNY and other agencies, particularly NYPD, in fire investigations. He explains the process of evidence analysis and information sharing between departments. - …
0:46:41
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128 sec
Ongoing training for Fire Marshals
Council Member Ariola inquires about the ongoing training for Fire Marshals. Chief Fire Marshal Flynn confirms that there is continuous in-service training for Fire Marshals. - Fire Marshals receive ongoing …
0:48:50
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17 sec
FDNY Canine Unit operations and history
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn provides a comprehensive overview of the FDNY Canine Unit's history, growth, and current operations. He details the unit's expansion, training, and certifications. - The Canine Unit …
0:49:07
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4 min
Canine handlers and their relationship with the dogs
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the relationship between canine handlers and their dogs, emphasizing that the dogs are part of the handlers' families and go home with them every night. …
0:53:28
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3 min
Canine training and certification
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the ongoing training and certification requirements for the FDNY canine units. He emphasizes the rigorous and continuous nature of the training. - Canines train every …
0:56:52
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55 sec
Future growth of the Canine Unit
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the potential for future growth of the FDNY Canine Unit. He emphasizes the need to balance resources and maintain core competencies. - The department is …
0:57:47
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103 sec
Fire investigation process using canines
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the process of using canines in fire investigations. He describes how and when canines are deployed to a scene. - Canines are requested by the …
0:59:31
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85 sec
Safety concerns and equipment for canines during investigations
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the safety measures and equipment used to protect both fire marshals and canines during investigations. He emphasizes the importance of scene evaluation and proper protective …
1:00:57
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3 min
Rewriting of BFI rules and regulations
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn provides an update on the comprehensive rewrite of the Bureau of Fire Investigation's rules and regulations. This process aims to modernize and improve the bureau's operations. …
1:04:18
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29 sec
Sharing of investigation results with the public
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the process of sharing fire investigation results with the public and other interested parties. He outlines the procedures for requesting and receiving information. - Investigation …
1:04:48
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89 sec
Lithium-ion battery fires and investigations
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the challenges and procedures related to lithium-ion battery fires and their investigations. He emphasizes the department's approach to handling these dangerous situations. - Lithium-ion battery …
1:06:17
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3 min
Lithium-ion Battery Task Force operations
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn provides details on the operations of the Lithium-ion Battery Task Force. He explains the composition of the task force and its inspection procedures. - The task …
1:10:04
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132 sec
Fireworks Enforcement Task Force
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn discusses the operations and challenges of the Fireworks Enforcement Task Force. He explains the difficulties in curbing illegal fireworks and the department's approach to enforcement. - …
1:12:16
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178 sec
Tracking and inspecting businesses selling lithium-ion batteries and mobility devices
Chief Fire Marshal Flynn explains the department's efforts to track and inspect businesses selling lithium-ion batteries and mobility devices. He discusses the challenges and procedures involved in this process. - …
1:15:17
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127 sec
Testimony by Joseph DiGiacomo, Fire Marshall from FDNY, on K9 demonstration
Joseph DiGiacomo, a Fire Marshall from FDNY, provided a demonstration of a K9 named Ray, showcasing the dog's abilities in ignitable liquid detection. The demonstration highlighted the unique skills of …
1:22:28
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173 sec
