We wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving and holiday season. Unfortunately, the end of the year is also when many fires take place. On November 13, almost 40 residents citywide joined our webinar “Fire Safety for Homeowners and Tenants: Protecting Your Life, Home & Wallet.” Here are some tips we shared for celebrating safely.
Prevent Fires Before They Start
- Never leave cooking unattended.
- Avoid overloading outlets or using damaged cords.
- Keep space heaters 3 feet from anything flammable.
Install & Maintain Smoke Alarms
- Place alarms on every level.
- Test monthly, replace batteries yearly.
- Contact FDNY or the Red Cross about their free smoke / CO alarm program. [ link to Get Alarmed NYC | Greater New York | American Red Cross]
Plan Your Escape
- Two exits per room.
- Know stairwell locations—never use elevators.
- If you can escape, close doors behind you.
Know Your Role
- Tenants: Report hazards immediately.
- Homeowners: Maintain alarms, sprinklers, and exits.
Fire Extinguisher Basics
- Use the PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
- If fire spreads—evacuate and call 911.
Stay Connected
- Post emergency numbers at home, work, and school.
- Sign up for official emergency alerts affecting up to 5 locations through NotifyNYC, available in 14 languages and ASL.
Have Insurance
- Loss due to a fire, smoke, or water damage are covered by home and renter’s insurance.
- Having insurance will mean you are not displaced to a shelter.
- Insurance will help you recover more quickly.
Questions?
If you have questions about home, renter’s or flood insurance policy; would like to know how much insurance you need or how much it will cost; are concerned you are overpaying for your policy; or need to file a claim but would like to speak with a neutral party first, please contact Monroe Shannon, our Program Manager for Insurance and Resiliency using this form.