In new PSA, the FDNY issues urgent warning following several fatal fires involving senior citizens

November 26, 2025

The FDNY is sounding the alarm following a series of fatal fires in November. All eight claimed the lives of elderly New Yorkers. The Department released a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) on Nov. 26, urging all New Yorkers to take immediate steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.

"These incidents are painful reminders of how quickly a small hazard can become a life-threatening emergency," FDNY Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn said. "If you or someone you love is elderly, having a clear, simple and practiced escape plan can make all the difference in getting out safely."

The FDNY urges all New Yorkers to talk to people in their lives, especially those who may need extra support or who are living alone, and walk through the escape plan together. Make sure they know two ways out of every room and that pathways remain free of clutter. Here are other winter safety tips:

• Never overload extension cords or power strips.
• Do NOT use extension cords permanently. They are only for temporary use.
• Do NOT plug large appliances into extension cords.
• Never sleep with a space heater running.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a space heater.
• Don't smoke in bed or when you're feeling drowsy.
• Never leave cooking food unattended.

For more fire safety tips, go to FDNYSmart.org.

The Department's PSA program is made possible in part with support from the FDNY Foundation, the official nonprofit organization for the Department.