New York City Fire Departments Adjusting to Increased Heat: 'A brand new chapter of bravery unfolds for us'

FDNY Adapts to Extreme Weather Challenges

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) is taking proactive measures to address the unique challenges posed by extreme weather events. With a focus on preparedness, the department is implementing strategic changes to ensure the safety of both its firefighters and the city's residents.

One of the key areas of focus is maintaining physical fitness for firefighters in extreme heat. To this end, the FDNY is hiring exercise physiologists to help firefighters maintain their fitness levels, particularly during the hot summer months.

The problem of vehicle readiness in extreme heat is also a concern for the FDNY. Acknowledging the complexity of this issue, the department has moved high-axled vehicles and sophisticated water rescue equipment to areas prone to flash flooding.

The FDNY's preparedness for extreme weather events extends beyond just vehicle positioning. In response to recent extreme rain events, the department activated its hurricane plan, which includes moving resources to at-risk areas. This proactive approach has already proven effective, with the FDNY successfully rescuing people from flooded areas on the Cross Island Parkway and on Northern Boulevard.

However, navigating through parks like Prospect Park and Inwood Park, which lack streets and fire hydrants, poses a challenge. In such situations, the FDNY has had to use a fireboat to draft water for firefighting. The department is keenly aware of the need for more resources, including specific vehicles, to effectively navigate these areas.

The impact of extreme rain events on the city is not lost on the FDNY. The commissioner of the department has publicly acknowledged the reality of climate change and its effect on the department's operations. The weight of firefighting gear and the high temperatures can increase the internal temperature to 150 degrees, posing a significant challenge for firefighters.

In addition to the challenges posed by extreme rain events, the FDNY is also concerned about the impact of extreme heat and droughts, particularly in relation to fires. As a result, the department has implemented strategic firefighting measures to combat multiple wildfires in Manhattan parks as a response to increased heatwaves and drought periods impacting emergency vehicle operations.

The EMS is also operating under hot conditions, raising questions about the readiness of their vehicles to operate in 100-degree weather, specifically the functionality of the air conditioning systems. Despite these challenges, both the FDNY and the EMS remain committed to serving the city and ensuring the safety of its residents.

In conclusion, the FDNY is adapting to the challenges posed by extreme weather events with a proactive and adaptive response. The department's focus on hiring exercise physiologists, moving resources to at-risk areas, and implementing strategic firefighting measures are just a few examples of the ways in which the FDNY is ensuring it is prepared to handle extreme weather situations, including flooding and wildfires.

New York City Fire Departments Adjusting to Increased Heat: 'A brand new chapter of bravery unfolds for us'