Bill Promotes Safety for Fire Department

WNYC News | Jul 12, 2010

New York, NY —

The Fire Department will now be immediately notified when a building is given a permit for major renovations, thanks to a unanimous City Council vote yesterday.

REPORTER: The legislation is a response to an incident in the Bronx last year that left 2 firefighters dead when they fell through a floor fighting a fire in a building with structural problems. Council Speaker Christine Quinn says the information gives firefighters better tools to help them avoid injury or death.

QUINN: If God forbid, they have to run into that building one day when its on fire - they have a little better sense of what they can expect. They know before the moment when they show up, that work is going on.

REPORTER: Currently, the Department of Buildings only informs the FDNY when permits are issued for sprinkler and alarm systems. Mayor Bloomberg is expected to sign the bill into law.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

The unlikely organizers: Even NYC luxury renters are starting tenant associations

Renters paying premium prices for New York City rentals are organizing with neighbors to get their money’s worth.

Gothamist |

Why New York Bagel and Pizza Recipes May Change

Julia Moskin talks about New York's proposed ban on potassium bromate, which is used in NY bagels and pizza.

The Brian Lehrer Show |

The U.F.C. President, Dana White, on Donald Trump: “He’s Not a Racist”

White discusses his relationship with the President, the upcoming match on the White House South Lawn, and why he thinks he’s above politics.

The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Episode 4 of American Emergency; The Movement to Kill FEMA

FEMA’s uncertain future. Plus, what happens when the next disaster strikes?

On the Media |