NEW YORK — FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro announced that the month of June, 2015, was the first month recorded in the department’s 150-year history with no fatalities due to fire.
“This achievement is a testament to the outstanding performance by our firefighters, paramedics and EMTs to quickly respond to fires and treat the injured, as well as the extensive work by our Fire Safety Education Unit to educate the public on ways to prevent fires and remain fire safe,” Nigro said. “The historic reduction in fire-related deaths over the last several years clearly demonstrates the department’s efforts are making a significant impact and saving lives in communities throughout the city.”
So far in 2015, there have been 29 fire-related deaths. During the last five years, fewer New Yorkers have died in fires than in any comparable five-year period since accurate record-keeping began in 1916. The record high number of fire deaths in New York City was 310 in 1970.
Fire-related deaths: 2010 – 2014
- 2014: 71 deaths
- 2013: 67 deaths
- 2012: 58 deaths
- 2011: 66 deaths
- 2010: 62 deaths