FDNY Reports Progress in Fighting Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in 2024
Progress in Combating Fire Hazards
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced that New York’s Bravest are successfully combating fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, leading to a dramatic 67% decrease in fatalities linked to the fire-inducing devices in just one year.
Reduced Fatalities
In 2024, the city recorded six deaths attributed to lithium-ion battery incidents, a drop from 18 fatalities reported in 2023. Tucker emphasized the fact that overall fire-related fatalities have decreased by 25%, highlighting that "one death is too many, but this progress is the result of enhanced public education, inspection efforts, and greater community engagement."
Increased Inspections and Education
Since the inception of targeted safety campaigns in 2021, the FDNY has ramped up its response to the potential dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries. In 2024, the department’s Lithium-Ion Battery Task Force conducted inspections of 585 e-bike shops, marking a significant 25 percent increase from the previous year. The inspections resulted in the issuance of 426 FDNY summonses, 138 violation orders, and 32 criminal summonses—along with seven vacate orders coordinated with the Department of Buildings.
Fire Safety Education
Fire safety education remains a cornerstone of the FDNY’s strategy. In 2024, the Fire Safety Education Unit conducted 3,160 presentations, reaching nearly 509,000 New Yorkers—a 37 percent increase from the previous year.
Conclusion
The ongoing efforts of the FDNY to educate and protect the public reflect a commitment to reducing emergencies and saving lives. Despite the higher volume of calls, FDNY personnel have worked tirelessly to save lives, helping to make 2024 a safer year for New Yorkers.
FAQs
Q: What is the current trend in fire-related fatalities in New York City?
A: Fire-related fatalities have decreased by 25% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Q: What is the FDNY doing to combat lithium-ion battery fires?
A: The FDNY has increased inspections of e-bike shops and has implemented targeted safety campaigns to educate the public on proper storage and charging of lithium-ion devices.
Q: What is the FDNY’s strategy for reducing emergencies and saving lives?
A: The FDNY’s strategy includes fire safety education, inspections, and community engagement to reduce the risk of fires and save lives.
