NYC Faces Rising Brush Fire Threat: Safety Measures Urged

In recent weeks, New York City has experienced a troubling increase in brush fires, with the Bronx particularly hard hit.

According to the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), there were 229 brush fire incidents reported citywide between October 29th and November 12th, 67 of which occurred in the Bronx alone.

Notably, the Inwood section has suffered from a series of persistent and enduring brush fires. Captivating photographs taken from the Bronx side of the Henry Hudson Bridge near Kappock Street illustrate the severity of these fires, with images recorded on November 14th and November 19th.

In response to this alarming trend, the FDNY is emphasizing the critical need for fire safety education. Brush fires can ignite anywhere—while they are often thought to occur primarily in dry, rural areas, urban parks, greenways, and vegetated spaces in the city can be equally at risk, especially during prolonged dry spells.

Given the uptick in brush fires, the FDNY encourages all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and prepared, as these fires can escalate rapidly in dry conditions. Here are essential safety tips to help mitigate the risk of brush fires:

Help Reduce the Risk:

• Refrain from Outdoor Burning: This includes campfires, bonfires, and any open flames.
  
• Grilling Prohibited: Grilling is not allowed in New York City parks while drought conditions persist.
  
• Be Responsible When Smoking: If you smoke outdoors, please properly dispose of cigarette butts and matches.
  
• Stick to Designated Trails: When visiting our parks, adhere to marked paths to protect surrounding vegetation and reduce the chances of accidental fires.
  
• Fireworks Reminder: Remember, fireworks are illegal throughout New York City.
  
• Maintain Clean Surroundings: Remove litter and excessive brush or leaves from sidewalks that adjoin residences and businesses.

Residents are urged to stay alert and actively contribute to community safety. For further fire safety tips, please refer to the following link: [Brush Fires – FDNY Smart](insert link here).

Additionally, FDNY Fire Safety Education teams will be present in parks across New York City throughout the upcoming week, providing invaluable educational resources. Community members are encouraged to communicate the locations of these teams to enhance fire safety awareness.

Event Schedule:

Queens
Saturday, November 16

10 AM – 12 PM: Alley Pond Park
Location: Winchester Boulevard and Union Turnpike, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364

1 PM – 3 PM: Baisley Pond Park
Location: 125 Avenue and Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434

Brooklyn
Sunday, November 17

10 AM – 12 PM: Prospect Park
Location: 15th Street and Prospect Park Southwest entrance, Brooklyn, NY 11215

1 PM – 3 PM: Marine Park
Location: East 31st Street and Fillmore Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11234

Manhattan
Monday, November 18

12 PM – 2 PM: Marcus Garvey Park
Location: East 121st Street and Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10035

3 PM – 5 PM: Inwood Hill Park
Location: Isham Street and Seaman Avenue, New York, NY 10034

Bronx
Tuesday, November 19

12 PM – 2 PM: Crotona Park
Location: E 173rd Street and Crotona Park West, Bronx, NY 10457

3 PM – 5 PM: Van Cortlandt Park
Location: Manhattan College Parkway and Broadway, Bronx, NY 10471

Staten Island
Wednesday, November 20

12 PM – 2 PM: Clove Lake Park
Location: Clove Road and Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10301

3 PM – 5 PM: Gateway National Park
Location: Buffalo Street and Highland Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306