New FDNY Pro episode covers Harlem fire response

The FDNY Pro podcast has released a new episode on lithium-ion battery fire operations.

In the programme, Battalion Chief Ryan Brito and Firefighter Michael Kotzo recounted their actions at a February 2024 lithium-ion battery fire in Harlem.

The incident occurred in a six-story, non-fireproof apartment building where a battery ignited and spread rapidly through the hallway and stairwell.

The fire created extreme smoke and heat conditions that trapped dozens of residents on the upper floors.

The episode highlights how FDNY companies carried out rescues under near-zero visibility while engines fought to contain the spread.

Backgrounds of the podcast guests

The episode was hosted by Battalion Chief Jason Cascone, who interviewed Brito and Kotzo.

Brito joined the department in 2008, serving in several companies before being promoted to Battalion Chief in 2025.

He was Captain of Ladder 34 at the time of the Harlem fire.

Kotzo entered the FDNY in 2003 and has served in multiple companies, including his current assignment at Ladder 28.

Their backgrounds provided context for the perspectives they brought to the incident.

Inside operations and rescues

During the conversation, Brito explained how Ladder 34 advanced inside the building when fire blocked the stairwell.

Engine 69 stretched a line to hold back the flames, allowing ladder crews to climb and begin searches.

In blackout conditions, Brito located two unconscious civilians in a fourth-floor hallway.

With assistance from other firefighters, they removed both victims despite worsening smoke and heat.

He added that his team re-entered to continue searches in a cluttered apartment, supported by suppression efforts from engine companies.

Roof rescues by Ladder 28

Kotzo described on the podcast how he coordinated roof operations during the fire.

He and his roof partner performed rope rescues after finding civilians trapped at top-floor windows.

One rescue required him to descend with a victim clinging to him, who released his hold mid-descent.

Kotzo bore the victim’s weight until they reached the ground safely.

The discussion noted that Squad 41 also conducted rope rescues, supported by roof guides and ground units treating victims on descent.

Medal Day recognition

The podcast highlighted that six members received medals for actions at the Harlem fire.

Chief Brito was awarded the Henry D. Brookman Medal.

Firefighter Kotzo received the Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr. Medal, the FDNY’s highest honour for fire operations.

Other recipients included Firefighter Jason Lopez, Firefighter Matthew Nolan, Firefighter Mark Douglas and Firefighter Dwayne Davis.

Brito and Kotzo said the recognition represented collective company work rather than individual achievement.

Training and culture lessons

The guests stressed during the episode the importance of training and coordination.

They said rope rescues and search techniques are drilled extensively, enabling instinctive action under stress.

They also highlighted the department’s culture of accountability, with crews returning to suppression after rescues were complete.

Both guests described Medal Day as a reinforcement of family pride and collective morale across the FDNY community.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This podcast episode provides operational insight into lithium-ion battery fire response.

It shows how rapid fire spread in non-fireproof structures can trap residents quickly when doors are left open.

It outlines the value of rope rescue capability in dense urban areas where occupants may be cut off.

It also demonstrates how suppression and rescue functions must be integrated for life safety outcomes.

FDNY Pro podcast highlights lithium-ion battery fire operations: Summary

The FDNY Pro podcast has released a new episode on a lithium-ion battery fire.

The fire occurred on February 23, 2024, in a six-story non-fireproof apartment building in Harlem.

Battalion Chief Ryan Brito and Firefighter Michael Kotzo were featured guests on the episode.

Brito described leading inside searches under heavy smoke and heat.

Kotzo recounted rope rescues from the roof involving multiple trapped civilians.

Six FDNY members later received medals for actions at this incident.

The fire originated from a lithium-ion battery on the third floor.

An open apartment door allowed smoke and fire to spread into the public hall.

Engine companies contained the spread while ladder companies performed rescues.

The episode is hosted by Battalion Chief Jason Cascone.

It also reflects on the guests’ career backgrounds.

The episode aired on August 26, 2025.

The guests emphasised the importance of training for rope rescues and search operations.

They highlighted FDNY’s culture of accountability and collective duty.

The Medal Day 2025 ceremony was described as recognition for both families and firehouses.

The episode provides lessons for handling lithium-ion battery fires in non-fireproof structures.

It outlines the operational challenges and coordination required in such incidents.

It demonstrates integration of suppression and rescue functions.

It outlines the role of rope rescue in dense urban environments.

The FDNY Pro podcast episode is available through FDNY channels.