Summer fire protection guidance released by New York firefighters
Iain Hoey
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Fire protection advice issued for holidays in New York
The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has released updated summer safety guidance to help prevent fire and life safety incidents during holidays and outdoor activities.
According to FASNY President Eugene Perry, fire protection must remain a priority whether families are renting vacation properties, camping, or staying home.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that nearly 50 percent of home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.
Perry said the risk increases when people are in unfamiliar spaces without verified safety equipment or exit plans.
FASNY is encouraging residents and visitors to check all alarms, prepare escape routes, and supervise children near heat or water sources.
Fire safety advice for holiday rentals
FASNY has urged families to carry out basic fire protection checks when renting holiday homes or cabins.
Perry said: “If you decide to rent a home or cabin, families need to make sure there are working smoke detectors and CO alarms throughout the house.”
According to NFPA statistics, 37 percent of home fire deaths happen in properties with no smoke alarms, while homes with working alarms are half as likely to experience a fatality.
Perry added: “A simple check that your vacation spot has working CO alarms and smoke detectors is an important step that can prevent a tragedy, and may save the lives of you and your family.”
Families unfamiliar with the layout of a property may struggle to evacuate during a fire, particularly at night.
FASNY said most fatal fires happen between midnight and 8 a.m., meaning escape planning is important before arrival.
Outdoor fire safety for campers
FASNY has reminded residents to follow outdoor fire safety rules when camping across New York state.
Perry said: “New York state has many beautiful camping areas to enjoy – from the mountains to the beaches. If families decide to camp, they should remember to keep fire safety as a priority.”
Campers are advised to learn how to start, manage and extinguish fires safely and to monitor local fire bans before use.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, 80 percent of forest fires are caused by human activity.
FASNY said campers must check with local officials before lighting fires during dry weather conditions.
The association said these steps are essential to prevent accidental wildfires, especially in areas with high vegetation.
Backyard fire protection for grills and pizza ovens
Backyard cooking can carry burn and fire hazards, according to FASNY.
Perry said: “A BBQ is a great way to cook for the family. But complacency around the grill can lead to danger and injuries. You should always exercise caution and keep the grill well away from structures and where people are playing or walking.”
NFPA data shows that children under five account for 39 percent of annual burn injuries caused by contact with grills or coals.
FASNY recommends placing grills in clear areas, cleaning grease buildup, and keeping fire extinguishers nearby.
Gas and wood-fired pizza ovens are also becoming common in outdoor kitchens but carry new risks.
Perry said: “People are at higher risks for burns when using a pizza oven by themselves. They don’t realize how hot the stone can get, making burns more common than with other cooking appliances.”
Pizza ovens require regular cleaning and sufficient distance from flammable surfaces to prevent fires.
Pool safety and drowning prevention
FASNY has also warned of drowning risks at residential swimming pools.
Perry said: “In the time it takes to reply to a text or turn off the oven, a child can fall into a pool and drown. All pools should have appropriate barriers to keep children out when adults are not around. When the pool is in use, an adult should be designated to watch in case something goes wrong.”
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, drowning is the top cause of unintentional death for children aged one to four.
Data shows that 71 percent of fatal drownings happen at residential locations.
FASNY said pool owners should install fences, enforce supervision rules and stay alert during all pool use.
The association has asked families to treat pool safety with the same seriousness as fire prevention.
General fire protection tips for summer
FASNY has included further advice to help residents manage general fire risks this summer.
Smoking should be avoided in grassy or wooded areas.
Electrical cords and devices should be inspected for signs of wear or damage.
Flammable items like petrol should be stored in secure, marked containers outside the home.
Gardens and outdoor spaces should be cleared of dried leaves, rubbish and overgrown vegetation to reduce the chance of fire spread.
Perry said: “On behalf of all of FASNY, we wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe summer.”
FASNY was founded in 1872 and represents 80,000 volunteer firefighters and EMS professionals across New York state.
Summer fire protection guidance released by New York firefighters: Summary
The Firefighters Association of the State of New York has published fire protection guidance for the summer.
The advice covers holiday rentals, camping, backyard cooking and pool safety.
FASNY President Eugene Perry has urged families to check smoke alarms and prepare escape routes.
NFPA data shows nearly half of home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.
Campers are advised to check fire regulations and control outdoor flames.
The U.S. Forest Service reports that 80 percent of wildfires are caused by people.
Backyard grills and pizza ovens should be used with caution and kept clean.
Children under five make up 39 percent of grill burn injuries, according to NFPA data.
Residential pools must have safety barriers and adult supervision.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that drowning is the top cause of accidental death for children aged one to four.
FASNY also recommends clearing vegetation and storing flammable materials safely.