The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has launched a specialized task force to combat the growing wildfire threat in the city, prompted by a severe drought that has persisted through the fall.
The Big Apple has experienced an uncharacteristically dry period since September, leaving the city’s parks and green spaces particularly vulnerable to brush fires. Between November 1 and 14, firefighters responded to 271 brush fires across the five boroughs, including incidents in Prospect Park, Alley Pond Park, and Inwood Hill Park.
To address the surge in wildfires, FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker announced the formation of a new task force on November 17 consisting of fire marshals, fire inspectors, and tactical drone units, designed to quickly respond to fires, investigate their causes, and share data to prevent future outbreaks.
Tucker emphasized that the task force’s mission is not only to react to fires but also to prevent them. “This initiative is a critical step toward safeguarding our city’s parks and communities. We are putting in place protocols that will help protect our firefighters in the field while also identifying the origins of fires to better prevent future incidents,” Tucker stated. “We also urge New Yorkers to follow safety guidelines to minimize the risk of brush fires.”
The new Brush Fire Task Force will focus on all aspects of wildfire management. Drones will be utilized to gather real-time information about fire behavior, enabling firefighters to respond more effectively and avoid dangerous areas. Additionally, on-the-ground teams will conduct inspections of high-risk zones to evaluate environmental factors that might contribute to fires.
After each fire, the task force will investigate its origin, examining factors such as burn patterns, weather conditions, and witness statements. When arson is suspected, fire marshals will work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to pursue further investigation.
Alongside these efforts, the FDNY’s Community Affairs Unit is stepping up its outreach to the public, informing New Yorkers about the dangers of brush fires and offering advice on how to reduce risks. Key safety measures include avoiding outdoor burning, such as campfires and bonfires, and adhering to the city’s ban on grilling in parks during drought conditions. People are also urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts and matches, exercise caution when using flammable materials near dry grass, and avoid fireworks, which remain illegal across the city.
The dry conditions that have fueled these fires are expected to continue, with more sunny days in the forecast for the start of the week. Temperatures are expected to hover in the mid-50s to low 60s. However, the National Weather Service predicts rain may arrive later in the week, though the exact amount remains uncertain.
