Fire Safety Tips from HPD NYC: Essential Advice for Owners and Tenants

Fire safety is a paramount concern for both building owners and tenants in New York City. The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) provides crucial advice to ensure homes are fire-safe. Here are essential tips from HPD to help owners and tenants protect their homes and lives from the dangers of fire.

For Building Owners

Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the building. Regularly test alarms and replace batteries annually. Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years.
Develop and Communicate an Evacuation Plan: Create a detailed evacuation plan and share it with all tenants. Ensure that all occupants are aware of multiple exits and conduct regular fire drills to practice the plan.
Keep Exits and Hallways Clear: Maintain clear pathways in all hallways, stairwells, and exits. Prohibit storage of items in these areas to ensure they are always accessible for a quick evacuation.
Install and Maintain Self-Closing Doors: Ensure all fire doors are equipped with self-closing devices. Regularly inspect these doors to confirm they close and latch properly, as they play a crucial role in containing fires and protecting escape routes.
Provide Stove Knob Covers: In buildings with three or more apartments, provide stove knob covers for gas-powered stoves if there are children under six in the home or upon tenant request. These covers help prevent accidental ignition and reduce the risk of kitchen fires.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Building Systems: Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of heating, electrical, and cooking systems. Employ qualified professionals to address any issues promptly to prevent potential fire hazards.

For Tenants

Test Smoke Alarms: Regularly test smoke alarms in your apartment and notify the landlord immediately if any alarms are not functioning properly. Replace batteries as needed to ensure continuous operation.
Practice Your Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with the building’s evacuation plan and practice it regularly. Know the location of all exits and the designated meeting place outside the building.
Keep Exits Clear: Do not store personal items like bicycles, strollers, or furniture in hallways, stairwells, or near exits. Clear pathways ensure a safe and swift evacuation in case of fire.
Use Stove Knob Covers: If you have young children, request stove knob covers from your landlord if they are not already provided. These covers are essential for preventing accidental ignition of stove burners.
Be Cautious with Electrical Appliances: Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords. Unplug appliances when not in use, and replace damaged cords immediately to prevent electrical fires.
Report Maintenance Issues Promptly: Notify your landlord of any maintenance issues that could pose fire hazards, such as faulty wiring, malfunctioning heating systems, or broken smoke alarms.

The Importance of Fire Safety

Fire safety is a shared responsibility between building owners and tenants. By adhering to HPD's guidelines, both parties can significantly reduce the risk of fire, protecting lives and property. Building owners must ensure that their properties comply with fire safety regulations and provide the necessary safety features and maintenance. Tenants, on the other hand, must remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining their living spaces and reporting any safety concerns.

Creating a fire-safe environment requires continuous effort and cooperation. By following these essential tips from HPD, building owners and tenants can foster a culture of safety and preparedness, ultimately making New York City a safer place to live

DISCLAIMER
We are a small, family-owned and family-operated Brooklyn-based business. We are not a City of New York store, nor are our website, products, or services affiliated with the City of New York or any agency of the City of New York. Neither we, nor our business, websites, products, services, or any hyperlinks from our website are sponsored by, approved by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the City of New York or any agency of the City of New York, including but not limited to HPD, DOB, DOT, DSNY, FDNY, or any federal entity, directly or by implication.

DISCLAIMER ON LEGAL CODES
The codes, regulations, and requirements referenced on our website may not represent the most recent or updated versions. State, federal, or local regulatory agencies may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information provided on this site or linked from it. Customers should verify all information by reviewing the official sources directly.

DISCLAIMER ON SIGN USE
The requirements for sign content depend on intended use and applicable laws. The buyer is solely responsible for determining the appropriate content for a sign or package of signs. We make no warranty or representation regarding the suitability of any sign for a specific application. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that the signs ordered are in compliance with all applicable state, federal, local, and municipal laws. Customers are encouraged to carefully review our Terms and Conditions prior to purchase.

GENERAL INFORMATION DISCLAIMER
All content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, professional advice, or a definitive statement of law. For guidance on specific requirements, customers should consult the laws and regulations referenced, as well as any rules applicable in their jurisdiction. You may wish to consult with an attorney or qualified professional to ensure compliance with all applicable legal obligations.