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FDNY Teams Up with Department of Buildings
to Spread Safety Message

Retired Fire Lt. Bruce Silas hands out fire safety information at the 74th Street train station in Jackson Heights, Queens.

Retired Fire Lt. Bruce Silas hands out fire safety information at the 74th Street train station
in Jackson Heights, Queens.

Members of the FDNY’s Fire Safety Education Unit joined members of New York City’s Department of Buildings (DOB) on Nov. 18 at the 74th Street train station in Jackson Heights, Queens, to educate the public about the dangers of illegal conversions. It’s part of a three-week campaign to educate New Yorkers about the dangers of these living areas.

Illegal conversions are apartments or living areas that have been created without the proper permits.

“Once fires start in these types of living spaces, they advance quickly,” said Battalion Chief Joe Cunningham of Battalion 49. “Because [illegal conversions] create small spaces, they are difficult to escape for a resident if there is a fire, and are difficult to operate in by firefighters.”

Battalion Chief Joe Cunningham addresses the media about the dangers of illegal conversions.

Battalion Chief Joe Cunningham addresses the media about the dangers of illegal conversions.

These living areas also often contain numerous hazards, which can easily spark a fire.

Hazards include:

  • A bedroom located in the cellar (these areas have at least half of their height underground);
  • An apartment located in the attic of a building;
  • A living area - whether a single room or an entire apartment - that receives all its electricity through an extension cord;
  • A room or apartment is locked with a padlock;
  • A room or apartment is located adjacent to a boiler;
  • Fewer than two easy ways to exit an apartment or room.

The FDNY and DOB hope they will reach more than 50,000 New Yorkers in all five boroughs with information on illegal conversions and fire safety.

“The purpose of this campaign is to make sure all New York City residents know how to stay safe in their home,” said Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri.

To learn more about illegal conversions or if you think you live in an illegally converted apartment, the FDNY and DOB urge you to call 3-1-1.

Learn more about how to keep your home fire safe