new york city apartment building emergency preparedness guide

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NEW YORK CITY 
APARTMENT BUILDING 
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 
 
For Apartment Building Residents and Staff 
CONTENTS 
1.  EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS BASICS .............................................................................................. 3 
A.  Stay Informed/Emergency Notification Systems ......................................................................... 3 
B.  Sheltering in Place ...................................................................................................................... 3 
C.  When to Evacuate/Emergency Shelter ....................................................................................... 3 
D.  Reconnecting With Your Family .................................................................................................. 4 
2.  PEOPLE WHO NEED ASSISTANCE .................................................................................................... 4 
A.  If you need help .......................................................................................................................... 4 
B.  If you can provide help ............................................................................................................... 4 
3.  READINESS SUPPLIES (FOR HOME EMERGENCIES AND YOUR GO BAG) ......................................... 5 
A.  Home Emergency Supply Kit ....................................................................................................... 5 
B.  Go Bag ........................................................................................................................................ 5 
4.  HOME SAFETY AND FIRE PREVENTION ............................................................................................ 6 
A.  Home Safety Devices .................................................................................................................. 6 
B.  Safe Home Heating ..................................................................................................................... 7 
C.  Fire Prevention Tips .................................................................................................................... 7 
D.  Extinguishing a Small Fire ........................................................................................................... 9 
5.  KNOW YOUR BUILDING ................................................................................................................... 9 
A.  Building Construction ............................................................................................................... 10 
B.  Fire Protection Systems ............................................................................................................ 10 
C.  Getting Out Safely (Means of Egress) ........................................................................................ 12 
D.  Apartment Identification and Fire Emergency Markings ........................................................... 13 
6.  WHAT TO DO IN A FIRE OR NON-FIRE EMERGENCY ...................................................................... 13 
A.  Fires ......................................................................................................................................... 13 
B.  Medical Emergencies ............................................................................................................... 15 
C.  Utility Emergencies ................................................................................................................... 16 
D.  Weather Emergencies .............................................................................................................. 18 
E.  Hazardous Materials Emergencies ............................................................................................ 21 
F.  Building Explosions/Collapse .................................................................................................... 22 
G.  Terrorism.................................................................................................................................. 23 
7.  EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS RESOURCES .................................................................................... 25 
 

This emergency preparedness guide has been developed by the New York City Fire Department for

distribution to apartment building residents and staff.

It is designed to educate you about your building and what you and the members of your

household can do to prepare for emergencies, prevent fires and protect yourselves during a fire or

non-fire emergency.

If you receive this guide from the building owner or manager, it will include a Building Information

Sheet prepared by the building owner describing the construction of your building, building fire

protection systems and exits; an individual emergency preparedness/evacuation planning

checklist; and other information that will inform your emergency planning.

1. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS BASICS

A. Stay Informed/Emergency Notification Systems

B. Sheltering In Place/Emergency Supply Kit

C. When To Evacuate/Emergency Shelter

D. Reconnecting With Your Family

A. Stay Informed/Emergency Notification Systems

1. Notify NYC is the City’s official source of emergency information, including weather

emergencies and subway and road closures.

2. Sign up for free emergency alerts or to download the Notify NYC application for mobile

applications.

3. Visit NYC.gov/notifynyc, call 311 (for Video Relay Service: 212-639-9675; for TTY: 212-504-

4115), or follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter

4. During an emergency, follow instructions from on-scene emergency responders or, if the

emergency is not at your building, monitor NotifyNYC, local radio, television and internet

news services for the latest information, including information about emergency shelter.

B. Sheltering in Place

1. During some emergencies, officials may advise you to stay where you are (shelter in place).

Generally, this means that it is safest for you to remain in your apartment while firefighters

put out a fire or emergency responders clear a nearby hazard.

2. The emergency procedures discussed in this Guide (see Section 6, What to Do in a Fire or

Non-Fire Emergency) will explain when to leave and when to shelter in place. In all cases,

follow the instructions of on-scene police, firefighters or other emergency responders.

3. If an emergency requires that you shelter in place, do not leave your place of safety to pick

your children up from school until the danger has passed and shelter-in-place orders have

been lifted. Schools have their own shelter-in-place procedures. You will only endanger

yourself by leaving a safe area during the emergency.

4. For weather emergencies and other emergencies that may require that you stay at home for

several days, keep an emergency supply kit. See Section 3(A), Home Emergency Supply Kit.

C. When to Evacuate/Emergency Shelter

1. Evacuate immediately when you:

• Are in immediate danger.

• Are in a type of building in which evacuation is recommended and you can safely do so.

See Section 7(A).

• Are instructed to do so by an on-scene emergency responder.

• Are ordered to do so by the Mayor or other public authority.

2. If you must evacuate your building or are directed by authorities to evacuate, make

arrangements to stay with friends or family. During a coastal storm evacuation, the City

and/or its partners will open evacuation centers throughout the five boroughs. Know which

evacuation center is closest to you by visiting NYC.gov/knowyourzone, or calling 311 (for

Video Relay Service: 212-639-9675; TTY: 212-504-4115).

D. Reconnecting With Your Family

Discuss with your family and household members where to meet if you have to evacuate your

building and cannot return.

1. Identify two places to meet: one near your home and one outside your neighborhood.

2. Designate an out-of-area friend or relative who household members can call if separated

during a disaster. Long-distance calls may be easier to make than local calls. This out-of-area

contact can help you communicate with others.

2. PEOPLE WHO NEED ASSISTANCE

A. If you need help

1. If you will have difficulty leaving the building (or going

elsewhere once you are out of the building) without

assistance, make a plan in advance and identify people who

could help you.

• If you live alone, or your household members work or

are not capable of assisting you, consider asking

neighbors to help you down the stairs (in case of fire or

power failure). Keep their telephone numbers and

other contact information handy.

• If you rely on the elevator for evacuation, ask the

building owner or manager if they will notify you in

advance before they take the elevator out of service

during an emergency (or for maintenance in normal

circumstances).

• If your building has staff, ask your building owner or

manager if the staff can alert emergency responders

and/or assist you, if possible.

• Take into consideration the factors outlined in Section 6(A)(2) Evacuation Assistance.

2. Keep a whistle in your apartment or bang pots together in case you need to signal to

neighbors or others that you need assistance.

3. Prepare and have ready a written note explaining your communication needs if you will

need assistance understanding others or others will need assistance understanding you. If

you communicate in writing, purchase and keep a portable white board, chalk board or

other personal communications device.

4. If you use a scooter or wheelchair, know the size and weight of your device, and whether it

is collapsible, to assist in making transportation arrangements.

B. If you can provide help

1. Be a caring neighbor. During an emergency, if safe to do so, check on neighbors who may

need assistance, especially seniors and persons with disabilities, who may need to be

warned.

2. If you can safely do so and are physically able, assist a neighbor in evacuating a building. Do

not use elevators during a fire. See Section 6(A), Evacuation Assistance.

3. When providing assistance, listen carefully to what your neighbor has to say about how they

should be lifted or moved.

3. READINESS SUPPLIES (FOR HOME EMERGENCIES AND YOUR GO BAG)

A. Home Emergency Supply Kit

Keep enough supplies in your home to survive for up to seven days. Below are suggested items

to keep in an easily accessible container (replace expired items from time to time):

✓ One gallon of drinking water per person per day

✓ Nonperishable, ready-to-eat canned

foods and manual can opener

✓ First aid kit

✓ Flashlight

✓ Battery-operated AM/FM radio and

extra batteries

✓ Whistle to signal for help from

neighbors

✓ Personal hygiene items: soap,

feminine hygiene products,

toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.

✓ Cell phone charging cord and

portable battery pack

✓ Child care supplies or other special care items

✓ Pet food and supplies

✓ At least a week’s supply of any medication or medical supplies you use regularly

✓ Spare eyeglasses or contact lens supplies

✓ Extra batteries for hearing aids

✓ Back-up equipment or extra supplies for any other home medical or communication

devices

B. Go Bag

Your Go Bag should be sturdy and easy to carry, like a backpack or a small suitcase on wheels.

You'll need to customize your Go Bag for your personal needs, but some of the important things

you need in your Go Bag include:

✓ Copies of your important documents in a

waterproof and portable container

(insurance cards, birth certificates, deeds,

photo IDs, proof of address, etc.)

✓ Extra set of car and house keys

✓ Copies of credit/ATM cards

✓ Cash (in small bills)

✓ Bottled water and nonperishable food,

such as energy or granola bars

✓ Flashlight

✓ Battery-operated AM/FM radio

✓ Extra batteries/chargers

✓ Medical items, including:

▪ First-aid kit

▪ At least a week’s supply of any medication or medical supplies you use regularly

▪ Medical insurance, Medicare and Medicaid cards

▪ A list of medications (and dosages)

▪ Names of physicians and contact information

▪ Information about medical conditions, allergies and medical equipment.

✓ Toiletries

✓ Notepad and pen

✓ Contact and meeting place information for your household

✓ Lightweight raingear and blanket

✓ Items to comfort or distract you, such as a book or deck of cards

✓ Child care supplies, including games and small toys.

✓ For pets and service animals:

▪ A current color photograph of your pet or service animal (or even better, one of

you together, in case you are separated)

▪ Name of veterinarian and contact information

▪ Ownership, registration, microchip and vaccination information.

▪ Food and water dishes

▪ Leash and (if needed) muzzle

▪ Cotton sheet to place over carrier to help keep your pet or service animal calm

▪ Plastic bags for clean-up

4. HOME SAFETY AND FIRE PREVENTION

• Home Safety Devices

• Safe Home Heating

• Fire Prevention Tips

• Extinguishing Small Fires

You can prevent a fire or other emergency by making sure your home is protected by working home

safety devices, by heating your home safely, and by preventing fires before they start.

A. Home Safety Devices

1. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

• Make sure you have smoke alarms (also

called smoke detectors) and carbon

monoxide alarms in your apartment. New

York City law requires landlords and other

owners to install smoke and carbon

monoxide alarms within 15 feet of the

entrance to each sleeping room and in the

basement. (New buildings must also have

one within each sleeping room.)

• Combined smoke/carbon monoxide alarms

may be used.

• Make sure the alarms are still working. Tenants are responsible for maintaining the

smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their apartments.

• Test the devices at least once a month by pressing the test button.

• Newer models are powered by electricity or have a built-in 10-year battery.

• Older models have removable batteries. Replace the batteries at least twice a year (when

you change the clocks in the spring and fall is a good time). Replace the battery right

away if the alarm makes a sound that indicates that the battery is low.

• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be replaced in accordance with the

manufacturer’s recommendation, but at least once every 10 years.

2. Assistive devices

• If you or a member of your household is deaf or has limited hearing, consult with the

building owner or manager regarding installation of smoke/carbon monoxide detector

devices that activate a visual (strobe) or tactile (vibration) alert.

• For more information, see Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

B. Safe Home Heating

1. Call 311 (for Video Relay Service: 212-639-9675; TTY: 212-504-4115) for a fire inspection if

you are unsure your heat source is safe.

2. If you need a portable heater, only use portable electrical heaters approved for indoor use

(with enclosed heating elements). Do NOT use your stove or oven to heat your apartment.

Do NOT use kerosene or propane heaters, which are dangerous and illegal for indoor use in

New York City.

3. Check the power current required to operate the portable heater. Make sure that it can

safely operate on a standard household electrical circuit. See Section 4(C), Fire Prevention

Tips.

4. Check the heater from time to time when it is on, and turn it off when you leave the

apartment or when you go to sleep. Never leave children alone in a room when a portable

space heater is on.

5. Keep all household materials that can catch on fire, including furniture, drapes, carpeting

and paper, at least three feet away from the heat source. Never drape clothes over a space

heater to dry.

C. Fire Prevention Tips

1. Discarded, accidentally left lit and carelessly handled cigarettes are the leading cause of fire

deaths. Never smoke in bed or when you are drowsy, and be especially careful when

smoking on a sofa or other upholstered furniture. Be sure that you completely extinguish

every cigarette in an ashtray that is deep and won’t tip over. Never leave a lit or smoldering

cigarette on furniture.

2. Matches and lighters can be deadly in the hands of children. Store them out of reach of

children and teach them about the danger of fire.

3. Do not leave cooking unattended. Keep stove tops clean and free of items that can catch on

fire. Before you go to bed, check your kitchen to ensure that your stove and oven are off.

4. Monitor coffee pots, hot plates and other electrical devices with heating elements. Don’t

leave them on when not needed. Make sure to turn them off at night or when no one is

home.

5. Never plug too many devices into electrical outlets. Most household outlets provide 15

amperes of electrical current, except outlets designated for large household appliances or

air conditioners. Do not operate household equipment, including microwaves, toasters,

coffee pots, hot plates and other devices that use a significant amount of current on the

same electrical outlet without first checking the amount of current they use.

6. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed. Never run extension cords under rugs.

Use only power strips with circuit-breakers.

7. Keep all doorways, and all windows leading to fire escapes, free of obstructions.

8. Report to the building owner or manager any obstructions or accumulations of rubbish in

the hallways, stairwells, fire escapes or other means of egress.

9. Window gates should be installed only when absolutely necessary for security reasons.

Install only Fire Department-approved window gates.

• Do not install window gates with key or combination locks. A delay in finding or using

the key or combination could cost lives.

• Familiarize yourself and the members of your household with the operation of the

window gate.

• Maintain the window gate’s operating mechanism so it opens smoothly. Don’t place any

furniture or personal items where they would prevent the window gates from opening.

10. Familiarize yourself and members of your household with the location of all building

stairwells, fire escapes and exits and the route to get to them.

11. With the members of your household, prepare an emergency escape route to use in the

event of a fire in the building. Choose a meeting place a safe distance from your building

where you should all meet in case you get separated during a fire.

12. Exercise care in the use and placement of fresh cut decorative greens, including Christmas

trees and holiday wreaths. If possible, keep them planted or in water. Do not place them in

public hallways or where they might block egress from your apartment if they catch on fire.

Keep them away from any flame, including candles and fireplaces. Do not keep for extended

period of time; as they dry, decorative greens become easily combustible.

13. Never use a propane, charcoal or other portable grill indoors.

14. Decorative fireplaces that use liquid alcohol or other flammable liquid are a potential fire

hazard. The liquid is easy to spill and quick to ignite. See Section 7, Emergency Preparedness

Resources, for more information.

D. Extinguishing a Small Fire

1. You are not expected to put out a fire

once it has spread. Instead:

• Get everyone out of the apartment.

• Leave immediately and close the

apartment door behind you. (This is

very important.)

• Report the fire by calling 911 as soon

as you reach a safe location. (If your

building has a fire alarm system, use

the manual pull station to activate

the fire alarm as you leave the

building.)

• Notify any building staff.

2. For a fire that has not spread, you can

use a portable fire extinguisher. Standard

ABC-type (dry chemical) portable fire

extinguishers are designed for household

fires, except for stove-top fires. Cover the

pan or pot and/or use a baking soda or

wet portable fire extinguisher (labeled

Class K) for stove-top grease/oil fires.

3. To use a portable fire extinguisher,

remember P.A.S.S.:

• Pull

• Aim

• Squeeze

• Sweep

5. KNOW YOUR BUILDING

Learn about your building’s construction and types of fire protection systems. This will help you make

informed decisions in the event of a fire or non-fire emergency in your building.

• Building construction: Is your building made of fireproof (non-combustible) material or non-

fireproof (combustible) material?

• Building fire protection systems: Is your building protected by a sprinkler system? Does it have a

fire alarm system or a building communications system?

• Getting out safely (means of egress): How can I get out of the building in case of emergency?

Where do the stairwells and other exits leave me: on the street, in the lobby, in the rear yard or

other location?

Review the Building Information Sheet you receive from your building owner. Owners of apartment

buildings (three or more apartments) are required to prepare and distribute a Building Information

Sheet and New York City Apartment Building Emergency Preparedness Guide to all residents and

building staff. They are also required to post an Emergency Preparedness Notice on the inside of your

apartment entrance door, and in the lobby or common area.

A. Building Construction

1. Non-Combustible Buildings. A “non-combustible” or “fireproof” building is a building whose

structural components (the supporting elements of the building, such as steel or reinforced

concrete beams and floors) are constructed of materials that do not burn or are resistant to

fire and therefore will not contribute to the spread of the fire. In such buildings, fires are

more likely to be contained in the apartment or part thereof in which they start and less

likely to spread beyond the building walls to other apartments and floors.

• THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT A NON-COMBUSTIBLE BUILDING IS IMMUNE FROM FIRE.

While the structural components of the building may not catch fire, all of the contents

of the building (including furniture, carpeting, wood floors, decorations and personal

belongings) may catch on fire and generate flame, heat and large amounts of smoke and

carbon monoxide, which can travel throughout

the building, especially if apartment or stairwell

doors are left open.

2. Combustible Buildings. A “combustible” or “non-

fireproof” building has a wood or other structure

that will burn if exposed to fire. A fire that spreads

from the burning contents of an apartment into the

building walls can spread within the walls and

endanger the entire building.

Check the Building Information Sheet for your building to see whether it is combustible or

non-combustible construction.

B. Fire Protection Systems

Regardless of the type of construction it is, your building may be protected by fire protection

systems that detect and/or help prevent fires, and provide early warning to building occupants.

1. Fire Separations. Most apartments have sheetrock walls and ceilings and fire-rated metal

doors. Many buildings also have enclosed stairwells (enclosed within their own walls and

doors). Sheetrock and fire-rated doors are “passive” fire protection systems designed to

contain the fire for some amount of time, to allow the Fire Department to respond and

extinguish the fire and rescue building occupants.

• ALWAYS close the door to your apartment as you leave if there is a fire in the

apartment. LEAVING THE APARTMENT DOOR OPEN WHEN THE APARTMENT IS ON FIRE

ALLOWS THE FIRE TO SPREAD OUTSIDE OF THE APARTMENT.

• NEVER block/chock open stairwell doors. Stairwell doors should be kept closed at all

times.

2. Sprinkler Systems. A sprinkler system is designed to extinguish a fire by spraying water on it.

A sprinkler head on the ceiling detects the heat of a fire and automatically releases the

water from the pipe in the ceiling. It also sounds an alarm at street level, or, in most newer

buildings, transmits an alarm to a fire alarm company central monitoring station.

• Sprinklers are good at preventing a fire from

spreading, but the fire may still generate a large

quantity of smoke. Smoke spread can be life-

threatening to other building occupants. Always

close the apartment door as you leave.

• Apartment buildings constructed since 2000

generally are protected by a sprinkler system.

Earlier buildings generally do not have a sprinkler

system throughout the building. Some have partial

sprinkler systems in open stairwells, compactor

rooms or other areas.

3. Emergency Voice Communication Systems. Most high-rise apartment buildings constructed

since 2009 that are taller than 12 stories or 125 feet are equipped with a building-wide

emergency voice communication system that allows Fire Department personnel to make

announcements in the stairwells and in each dwelling unit from a central location, usually

the building lobby.

4. Fire Alarm Systems. All apartment buildings have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide

alarms in individual apartments (see Home Safety Devices, Section 4(a) above). These alarms

are not connected to a building fire alarm system and do not automatically notify a fire

alarm company central station; they only sound in the apartment.

Some buildings have fire alarm systems, but they may be limited in the areas they cover and

may not activate an alarm throughout the building.

• Most apartment buildings built since 2009 have a building fire alarm system, but it is

limited to smoke detection in mechanical and electrical rooms. Any alarm in those

rooms is automatically transmitted to a fire alarm company central monitoring station,

which notifies the Fire Department.

• Some older buildings have an interior fire alarm system with loudspeakers designed to

warn building occupants of a fire in the building and manual pull stations that can be

used to activate the fire alarm system. The manual pull stations are usually located near

the main entrance and by each stairwell door. The manual pull stations generally do not

automatically transmit a signal to a fire alarm company central monitoring station.

If you see or hear any of these devices sound an alarm, call 911. Do not assume that the Fire

Department has been notified.

5. Public Address Systems. Although generally not required, some residential buildings are

equipped with public address systems that enable voice communications from a central

location, usually the building lobby. Public address systems are different from building

intercoms, and usually consist of loudspeakers in building hallways and/or stairwells.

Check the Building Information Sheet for your building to see whether there is a sprinkler

system, fire alarm system, emergency voice communication system or public address

system in your building.

C. Getting Out Safely (Means of Egress)

Almost all residential apartment buildings have at least two means of egress (way of exiting the

building). There are several different types of egress:

1. Interior Stairs. All buildings have stairs leading to the street

level. These stairs may be enclosed or unenclosed.

• Enclosed stairwells are more likely to allow safe egress

from the buildi,ng, if the doors are kept closed.

• Unenclosed stairs do not prevent the spread of flame,

heat and smoke. Flames, heat and smoke from a fire

will rise up the stairs and prevent safe egress down the

stairs from floors above the fire.

2. Exterior Stairs. Some buildings provide access to the

apartments by means of outdoor stairs and corridors. The

fact that they are outdoors and do not trap heat and

smoke enhance their safety in the event of a fire, provided

that they are not obstructed.

3. Fire Tower Stairs. These are generally enclosed stairwells in a “tower” separated from the

building by air shafts open to the outside. The open air shafts allow the heat and smoke to

escape, keeping the stairwell safe.

4. Fire Escapes. Older buildings may have a fire escape on

the outside of the building, which is accessed through a

window or balcony. Fire escapes should be used only if

the primary means of egress from the building (stairwells)

have become unsafe because they are obstructed by

flame, heat or smoke.

5. Exits. Almost all buildings have more than one exit to the

outdoors. In addition to the main entrance to the

building, there may be side exits, rear exits, basement

exits, and exits to the street from stairwells. You should

know which exits lead to the street or other safe place,

and how to get to them from your apartment.

• Some of these exits may have alarms and should only

be used in an emergency.

• Roof access doors are not exits and may or may not

allow access to adjoining buildings. Roofs are

dangerous places, especially at night or in a fire. They usually have limited or no lighting

and often have tripping hazards and unprotected drop-offs. Do not use roof access as an

exit except as a last resort and only if there is safe access to an adjoining building.

Check the Building Information Sheet for your building to see the different means of egress

from your building and where they exit the building.

D. Apartment Identification and Fire Emergency Markings

All apartments are required to have the apartment number clearly marked at eye level on the

main entrance door to the apartment, in the building corridor. This will help the Fire

Department and other first responders quickly locate your apartment in an emergency.

In addition, many apartment buildings are now required to post or mark the apartment number

on the door jamb, at floor level. These reflective or luminous “fire emergency markings” will

help the Fire Department locate your apartment during a fire or smoke condition when the eye-

level door numbers are not visible. All duplex and other multi-floor apartments, and all

apartment buildings that are not protected by a sprinkler system and have more than 8

apartments on a floor, are required to install the fire emergency markings on apartment and

stairwell door jambs. For more information, see Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

Make sure your apartment number is on your apartment door. Check whether fire emergency

markings are required in your apartment building.

6. WHAT TO DO IN A FIRE OR NON-FIRE EMERGENCY

A. Fires

In the event of a fire, follow the directions of Fire Department personnel. However, there may

be emergency situations in which you may be required to decide on a course of action to

protect yourself and the other members of your household before Fire Department personnel

arrive on scene or can provide guidance.

1. Emergency Fire Safety Instructions

The instructions below are intended to assist you in selecting the safest course of action. Please

note that no instruction can account for all of the possible factors and changing conditions; you

will have to decide for yourself what is the safest course of action under the circumstances.

• Stay calm. Do not panic. Notify the Fire Department as soon as possible. Firefighters will

be on the scene of a fire within minutes of receiving an alarm.

• Because flame, heat and smoke rise, generally a fire on a floor below your apartment

presents a greater threat to your safety than a fire on a floor above your apartment.

• Do not overestimate your ability to put out a fire. Most fires cannot be easily or safely

extinguished. Do not attempt to put the fire out once it begins to quickly spread. If you

attempt to put a fire out, make sure you have a clear path of retreat from the room.

• If you decide to exit the building during a fire, close all doors as you exit to confine the

fire. NEVER USE THE ELEVATOR. It could stop between floors or take you to where the

fire is, and can become filled with smoke or heat.

• Heat, smoke and gases emitted by burning materials can quickly choke you. If you are

caught in a heavy smoke condition, get down on the floor and crawl, keeping your head

close to the floor. Take short breaths, breathing through your nose.

• If your clothes catch fire, don’t run. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your

face with your hands to protect your face and lungs and roll over to smother the flames.

If the fire is in your apartment:

• Close the door to the room where the fire is, and leave the apartment.

• Make sure EVERYONE leaves the apartment with you.

• Take your keys.

• Close, but do not lock, the apartment door.

• Use the nearest stairwell that is free of smoke to exit the building.

• DO NOT USE THE ELEVATOR.

• Call 911 as soon as you reach a safe location. Do not assume the fire has been reported

unless firefighters are on the scene.

• Meet the members of your household at a predetermined location outside the building.

Notify responding firefighters if anyone is unaccounted for.

If the fire is not in your apartment (in NON-COMBUSTIBLE OR FIREPROOF BUILDINGS):

• Stay inside your apartment (shelter in place) and listen for instructions from firefighters

unless conditions become dangerous.

• If you must exit your apartment, first feel the apartment door and doorknob for heat. If they

are not hot, open the door slightly and check the hallway for smoke, heat or fire.

• If you can safely exit your apartment, follow the instructions above for a fire in your

apartment.

• If you cannot safely exit your apartment or building, call 911 and tell them your address,

floor, apartment number and the number of people in your apartment.

• Seal the doors to your apartment with wet towels or sheets, and seal air ducts or other

openings where smoke may enter.

• Open windows a few inches at top and bottom unless flames and smoke are coming from

below. Do not break any windows.

• If conditions in the apartment appear life-threatening, open a window and wave a towel or

sheet to attract the attention of firefighters.

• If smoke conditions worsen before help arrives, get down on the floor and take short

breaths through your nose. If possible, retreat to a balcony or terrace away from the source

of the smoke, heat or fire.

If the fire is not in your apartment (in COMBUSTIBLE OR NON-FIREPROOF BUILDINGS):

• Feel your apartment door and doorknob for heat. If they are not hot, open the door slightly

and check the hallway for smoke, heat or fire.

• Exit your apartment and building if you can safely do so, following the instructions above for

a fire in your apartment.

• Alert people on your floor by knocking on their doors on your way to the exit.

• If the hallway or stairwell(s) are not safe because of smoke, heat or fire and you have access

to a fire escape; use it to exit the building. Proceed cautiously on the fire escape and always

carry or hold onto small children.

• If you cannot use the stairs or fire escape, call 911 and tell them your address, floor,

apartment number and the number of people in your apartment.

• Seal the doors to your apartment with wet towels or sheets, and seal air ducts or other

openings with plastic and duct tape where smoke may enter.

• Open windows a few inches at top and bottom unless flames and smoke are coming from

below. Do not break any windows.

• If conditions in the apartment appear life-threatening, open a window and wave a towel or

sheet or blow on a whistle to attract the attention of firefighters.

• If smoke conditions worsen before help arrives, get down on the floor and take short

breaths through your nose. If possible, retreat to a balcony or terrace away from the

source of the smoke, heat or fire.

2. Evacuation Assistance

If you will need assistance in evacuating the building, you should develop a plan in advance

and arrange a network of supports to be sure that you will be able to get out. For more

information, see Section 2, Persons Who Need Assistance.

In developing your plan, take the following factors into consideration:

• The most common problem in evacuating is inability to walk or difficulty walking.

Elevators can be used to evacuate the building in most emergencies, but not during a

fire or power outage.

• Relocating within the building below the fire floor or non-fire emergency may be

sufficient to protect you from harm.

• If you use a wheelchair, scooter or other motorized device, consider keeping a

lightweight travel wheelchair or evacuation chair in your apartment to make it easier for

others to assist you when the elevator can’t be used. Show how it works to those who

will be helping you.

• Carrying a person down flights of stairs is difficult, at best. If you and those who may be

helping you think it can be done, educate yourselves as to different ways persons can be

carried. For more information, see Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

As a last resort, if you are unable to evacuate, retreat to the safest area from the fire or

other emergency. This could be your apartment, a neighbor’s apartment, or the stairwell

itself. Some newer buildings may have a room near the stairwell designed as a shelter and

equipped with a telephone. Call 911 (or have others call 911) to report your situation.

B. Medical Emergencies

Take a moment to plan ahead for a medical emergency. What should you do if you, a member of

your family or a neighbor experience a medical condition that requires emergency ambulance

transport to a hospital?

Familiarize yourself with the warning signs of a medical emergency and the information the 911

operator will ask you to provide. Keep handy the phone numbers of someone you can call to

meet emergency responders and escort them directly to the patient.

1. Warning signs. The following are warning signs of a medical emergency:

• Burns or smoke inhalation

• Bleeding that will not stop

• Breathing problems, such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Change in mental status, such as unusual behavior, confusion, difficulty in waking

• Chest pain

• Choking

• Coughing up or vomiting blood

• Fainting or loss of consciousness

• Feeling of committing suicide or murder

• Head or spine injury

• Severe or persistent vomiting

• Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body

• Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision

• Swallowing a poisonous substance

• Upper abdominal pain

2. Call 911. Should you or a member of your household experience any of the above

symptoms, immediately call 911. Be ready to provide the following information to the 911

operator:

• The address of the building, including the nearest cross-street and apartment number.

• The best building entrance to use to get to where you are.

• The number of persons who are ill and your exact location inside or outside of the

building.

• Your chief complaint and/or present condition (e.g. bleeding, breathing/not breathing,

conscious/unconscious, etc.).

• Any disability of which emergency responders should be aware, such as hearing loss,

blind or limited vision, or a cognitive disability that will affect the emergency responders

ability to communicate with you.

• Have a family/household member stay with you.

3. Notify Building Staff. After calling 911, notify building staff that you have called 911 for an

ambulance. Ask them to meet the emergency responders, let them into the building and

assist them in finding your apartment. If you do not have or cannot reach building staff, ask

a family member or neighbor to meet and assist the emergency responders.

C. Utility Emergencies

Utility disruptions include power outages, carbon dioxide releases, gas leaks and water

leaks. They can affect a single apartment, building or block or the entire city.

1. Power Outages

Advance preparation:

• Keep flashlights and spare batteries in your apartment.

• Avoid the use of candles, which can start a fire. For more information about the safe use

of candles, see Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

•

If you rely on medical equipment that requires electric power, look into obtaining a

back-up power source. Ask your utility company whether your medical equipment

qualifies you to be listed as a life-sustaining equipment (LSE) customer who will be

contacted in the event of power emergency. See Section 7, Emergency Preparedness

Resources.

• Keep your cell phone charged. If you have a battery pack, keep it fully charged as well.

At time of the power disruption:

• Call your utility company

immediately to report the outage. See Section 7, Emergency

Preparedness Resources.

• Turn off all appliances that will turn on automatically when service is restored, to avoid

a power surge that can damage your electrical circuits and appliances.

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to avoid spoilage.

• Do not use generators indoors. They can create dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

• Do not use propane or kerosene heaters or grills indoors.

2. Carbon Monoxide Release

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances and

equipment (such as stoves, furnaces and hot water heaters), fireplaces and vehicle exhaust

pipes. The carbon monoxide generated by these appliances should be released outdoors

through a chimney, vent pipe or other means. A blocked or cracked chimney or vent pipe

can allow carbon monoxide to enter the building, sometimes many floors from the source.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are flu-like. They may include headache, dizziness,

fatigue, chest pain, vomiting. If not promptly addressed, it can cause death.

IF YOU SUSPECT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING:

• Open windows.

• Evacuate the building.

• Call 911 as soon as you reach a safe location.

• Call your local utility company.

3. Gas Leaks

Many apartments use piped natural gas from the utility company for cooking and clothes

drying. Natural gas is flammable and explosive. If it leaks and collects in an apartment or

room, a spark can ignite it, causing an explosion and a fire.

Piped natural gas is given a distinctive, “rotten eggs” smell by the utility company. If you

smell natural gas:

• Do not operate any light switches or electrical devices in the apartment, including your

cell phone. Any spark could cause a fire.

• Do not smoke and immediately extinguish any smoking materials.

• Evacuate the building, taking all members of your family/household.

• Call 911 to report the emergency when outdoors.

• For more information about building explosions, see Section 6(F).

4. Water Leaks or Interruptions

Water leaking into electrical wiring can cause a fire.

• If water is leaking into your apartment (or from your apartment to others), immediately

arrange for repairs or notify the building owner or manager to do so (as applicable).

• If water is entering electrical wiring in the ceiling or walls, call 911.

• If you have no water or very low water pressure, report the condition to 311 (for Video

Relay Service: 212-639-9675; TTY: 212-504-4115).

• If you have a concern about drinking water quality, report the condition to 311. Monitor

Notify NYC or local radio and TV stations for official guidance as to a widespread

drinking water emergency.

• If you see water coming up from the ground or roadway, or suspect a water main break,

call 311 (for Video Relay Service: 212-639-9675; TTY: 212-504-4115).

D. Weather Emergencies

1. Extreme Heat

During a heat wave your apartment may be unsafe if it is not air conditioned. Infants, the

elderly and the ill are particularly vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.

Monitor Notify NYC and local radio and TV stations for extreme heat warnings.

IN AN EXTREME HEAT EMERGENCY:

• With the approval of the building owner, purchase and install one or more air

conditioners. Only install air conditioners if the apartment’s electrical wiring can provide

adequate power. Make sure that the air conditioners that you purchase do not require

more power than your apartment’s electrical wiring can provide. Air conditioners should

be installed by a trained and knowledgeable person to make sure that they are securely

affixed to the building and do not endanger others below.

• Spend as much time as possible, especially during the day, in an air conditioned place.

This could be a friend or neighbor’s apartment, a restaurant or store, or a cooling

center.

• During heat emergencies, New York City operates cooling centers in air-conditioned

public facilities. Public pools may also be available. Call 311 (for Video Relay Service:

212-639-9675; TTY: 212-504-4115) or access NYC.gov/emergencymanagement during a

heat emergency to find a local cooling center or pool.

• Avoid strenuous activity.

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages.

• Conserve power: if you have an air conditioner, set it no lower than 78 degrees during a

heat wave when you are in your apartment, and turn off nonessential appliances.

2. Blizzards and Other Winter Weather Storms

The public is generally advised to shelter in place in their homes during a winter weather

storm. Apartment buildings usually provide a safe environment during storms and persons

can remain indoors for several days if necessary if they make adequate provision for food

and other supplies.

3. Heavy Rain, Coastal Storms and Hurricanes

In some extreme weather emergencies,

such as hurricanes, the City may order

evacuations in areas. If you live in a high rise

building, especially on the 10th floor or

above, stay away from windows in case they

break or shatter, or move to a lower floor.

Advance preparation:

• Before a coastal storm or hurricane, find

out if you live in one of New York City’s hurricane evacuation zones. See Section 7,

Emergency Preparedness Resources, or NYC.gov/knowyourzone.

• Prepare your home. Secure outdoor objects, close windows and exterior doors securely,

move valuable items to upper floors, and top off your generator with fuel.

• Have your Go Bag ready.

• Know where you will go in the event an evacuation order is issued. Stay with family or

friends or call 311 for information before, during or after the storm.

• If ordered to evacuate, do so as directed. Use public transportation if possible. Keep in

mind that public transportation may shut down several hours before the storm arrives.

• If you need to use the elevator to evacuate and are in an evacuation zone, be sure to

evacuate before elevator service is discontinued to protect the elevators from flooding.

Building owners are required to

post signs in the building lobby or

common area in advance (if

possible) of a weather emergency

if they will be discontinuing

elevator service. Advance

notification of the building owner/

management may help ensure

you receive appropriate

notification. See Section 2, People

Needing Assistance.

• Be prepared for a power

interruption by charging your cell phone and other portable devices and adjust the

refrigerator setting to a colder temperature.

During the storm:

• Stay indoors. If you live in a basement apartment, be prepared to move to a higher floor

during periods of heavy rain.

• Call 911 if you have a medical emergency or are in danger from physical damage to your

building or apartment, but be aware that an emergency response may be delayed or

unavailable during the storm.

• If you are trapped inside by rising waters, move to a higher floor, but don’t retreat into

an enclosed attic unless you have a saw or other tool to cut a hole in the roof if

necessary. Call 911 and report your situation. Wait for help. Do NOT try to swim to

safety. Do not enter a building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

• Stay away from downed power lines. Water conducts electricity.

4. Earthquakes

Although earthquakes are not common in the New York City area, earthquakes can and have

affected our area, and apartment building residents and staff should be prepared.

Depending on its location, even a small earthquake can cause buildings to shake, physically

damage buildings (including cracks in walls), and cause objects to move or fall from shelves.

During an earthquake, “drop, cover and hold on”:

• Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture (such as a table) and hold on.

• If you cannot take cover under a piece of furniture, take cover in a corner next to an

inside (interior) wall.

• Drop to the floor.

• Cover your head and neck with your arms.

• If you use a wheelchair, take cover in a doorway or next to an interior wall and lock the

wheels. Remove from the wheelchair any equipment that is not securely affixed to it.

Cover yourself with whatever is available to protect yourself from falling objects.

• If you are unable to move from a bed or chair, protect yourself from falling objects with

blankets or pillows.

• If you are outdoors, go to an open area away from trees, utility poles and buildings.

• Stay where you are until the shaking stops.

Be aware that there may be aftershocks, additional earthquake vibrations which often

follow an earthquake.

5. Tornados

Although not common in the New York City area, a number of tornados (and microbursts, a

similar wind condition) have touched down in New York City in recent years.

In the event of a tornado alert:

• If a tornado is approaching your neighborhood, immediately go to the basement of your

building. If your building has no basement, go to the lowest floor of the building.

• Stay next to the wall in an interior room or area away from windows until the tornado

has passed.

• Avoid interior spaces with roofs that span a large open space, such as atriums and

auditoriums.

• If there is no suitable place to shelter in your building, evacuate your building for a safer

location, but only if there is sufficient time to get there.

E. Hazardous Materials Emergencies

1. Chemical

A hazardous materials emergency can result from an accident, such as an overturned truck

or an explosion in a factory, or as a result of criminal activity, such as a terrorist attack.

If the chemical is being dispersed through the air, every effort should be made to avoid

breathing it in.

During the emergency:

• Shelter in place. Generally, it is safest to shelter in place in your apartment.

• Turn off all air conditioners and ventilation systems, close windows and seal up all

ventilation grilles and other openings that will allow outside air to enter into your

apartment.

• Monitor Notify NYC and local radio and TV stations for additional information.

If you are near the area of the chemical release or it has entered your apartment:

• Cover your nose, mouth and as much of your skin as possible.

• Evacuate your apartment and building if it is safe to do so. If not, move to an interior

room, such as a bathroom and seal up the windows and doors.

Once the emergency has been resolved, if you have been exposed to, or contaminated by,

the chemical:

• Listen for instructions from public authorities and/or first responders.

• Decontaminate yourself as soon as you reach a clean area. Obtain medical assistance if

needed.

Monitor Notify NYC for guidance if the hazardous materials release affects the water or food

supply.

2. Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD)

Radiological dispersal devices (RDDs) use conventional explosives with radioactive material.

RDDs are not capable of creating a nuclear explosion: they are not nuclear weapons. They

are meant to cause panic and disrupt daily life.

RDDs can cover a wide area with dangerous radioactive material. Radioactive material

dispersed from an RDD can settle like dust on your clothing, your body, and other objects.

If you are outside, immediately take shelter in the nearest safe building and monitor Notify

NYC (and local radio and TV stations, if available) for additional information and instructions.

If you or your family are near the location of a confirmed RDD explosion, follow the steps

below to reduce any potential radiation exposure. Do not go to a hospital unless you have a

medical emergency.

• Take off your outer layer of clothing and your shoes. This can remove up to 90% of any

radioactive material. Do not shake or brush off the dust.

• Seal the clothing and shoes you were wearing in a plastic bag or other container and

keep them away from people and pets, but do not place them in the garbage.

• Gently blow your nose and wipe your eyes and ears with a clean wet cloth.

• Take a shower with plenty of soap. Wash from your head down. Avoid scratching your

skin. Wash your hair using shampoo only. Do not use conditioner because it may cause

radioactive material to stick to your hair and skin.

• If you cannot shower, use a dry or wet cloth or wipe to clean skin that was uncovered,

including your face and hands. Seal the used cloth or wipes in a bag or container like you

did with your contaminated clothes.

• Put on whatever clothing and shoes you have that are not contaminated with dust. If

necessary, borrow clothes from a neighbor.

• All personal devices and equipment that may have been exposed to radioactive

material, especially wheelchairs and other mobility equipment, should be wiped down

with a damp cloth or wipe. Make sure to clean the wheels. Wash your hands afterwards.

• Decontaminate pets and service animals by washing and shampooing them. It is not

necessary to shave their fur.

F. Building Explosions/Collapse

The most common reason for a building explosion is a gas

leak. See Section 6(C)(3), Gas Leaks.

Building explosions can also result from malfunctioning

equipment or criminal activity.

Explosions can cause buildings, or portions of buildings, to

collapse. Building collapses also result from unlawful or

improperly performed alterations to the building structure.

Buildings of noncombustible construction (with concrete or

steel structures) are less likely to collapse, except in

extraordinary circumstances.

If there is an explosion in your apartment building:

• Attempt to determine the severity of the damage to the building (such as collapsed or

cracked ceilings or walls, clouds of dust, or strong smell of gas) and whether you are in

immediate danger.

• If conditions allow, evacuate the building as quickly and calmly as possible.

• Call 911 as soon as you are in a safe location.

• If you cannot safely evacuate or you are not certain it is safe to evacuate, call 911 and follow

the instructions they provide.

• If there is a possibility of a collapse of walls or ceilings, take cover under a sturdy piece of

furniture (such as a table).

If there is a collapse in your building and you are trapped by debris:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a dry cloth or clothing.

• Move around as little as possible to avoid generating dust, which may be harmful and make it

difficult to breathe.

• Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if one is available.

G. Terrorism

A terrorist's primary objective is to create fear. With accurate information and basic emergency

preparedness, you can fight back. Visit PlanNowNYC, a website developed by NYC Emergency

Management and the City’s other emergency response agencies to help New Yorkers prepare

for terrorist attacks. See Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

1. Know the Facts and Be Responsible

• Keep in mind that terrorism can take many different forms. By preparing for the fire and

non-fire emergencies addressed above, you will also be preparing for terrorist attacks.

• Know the facts of a situation and think critically. Confirm reports using a variety of

reliable sources of information, such as the government or media. Do not spread

rumors.

• Do not accept packages from strangers, and do not leave luggage or bags unattended in

public areas such as the subway.

• If you receive a suspicious package or envelope, do not touch it. Call 911 and alert City

officials. If you have handled the package, wash your hands with soap and water

immediately. Read the US Postal Service's tips for identifying suspicious packages. For

more information, see Section 7, Emergency Preparedness Resources.

2. Active Shooter Emergencies

In an active shooter emergency, one or more armed individuals enter a building or other

place with the intention of shooting multiple persons, typically at random.

Active shooter incidents are generally associated with public buildings and places, not

apartment buildings. However, an active shooter emergency could occur in or around your

apartment building, or where you work, shop, or spend recreational time. It is important

that you understand how to respond to such emergencies.

DURING AN ACTIVE SHOOTER EMERGENCY, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU:

1. Avoid (Run). Get away from the shooter, if you can. Leave your personal belongings

behind.

2. Barricade (Hide). If you can’t safely leave the

area, go into an apartment or other room.

Lock the door and/or block it with large,

heavy objects to make entry difficult. Hide

behind a large, solid item if possible, in case

shots are fired through the door or wall. Turn

off any source of noise and remain still and

quiet. Put your cell phone and other devices

on silent, not vibrate.

3. Confront (Fight). If you and others cannot

safely leave the area and there is nowhere to

hide, or the shooter enters your apartment or

hiding place, use whatever you can to defend

yourself. Coordinate your actions with others, if possible. Commit to

your actions and act aggressively. Improvise weapons and throw items.

Yell.

4. Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so.

Law enforcement personnel responding to an active shooter incident will be focused on

identifying and neutralizing the shooter(s). Law enforcement officers will be looking at the

hands of all persons they encounter, both to identify the shooter and for their own safety.

1. Keep your hands empty and above your head. Do not carry any items that could be

confused with a weapon or a dangerous device.

2. Do not act in a manner that may cause a law enforcement officer to view you as a

threat. Do not make any sudden movements. Keep your distance. Do not run towards

law enforcement officers or grab them.

3. The law enforcement personnel you first encounter may not be designated to render

medical assistance. If possible, proceed to a more secure area before requesting

assistance.

4. You may not be allowed to immediately leave the scene of the incident. Be prepared to

be detained for questioning.

7. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS RESOURCES

Emergency Preparedness Basics

Notify NYC: Sign up for Notify NYC to receive notifications by going to NYC.gov/NotifyNYC,

follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter, contact 311, or get the free app for your Apple or Android

device.

Ready New York (NYC Emergency Management): The Ready New York guides offer tips and

information for all types of emergencies. The information in these guides is available in multiple

languages and in audio format:

http://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/guides-resources.page

Reduce Your Risk Guide (NYC Emergency Management): This guide outlines steps property

owners can take to prepare through hazard mitigation — cost-effective and sustained actions

taken to reduce the long-term risk to human life or property from hazards:

http://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/guides-resources.page#reduce_your_risk

Information for Apartment Dwellers (NYC Department of Housing Preservation and

Development (HPD)): HPD’s website discusses how apartment renters can prepare for and

respond to weather emergencies, natural disasters, hazards, and power outages. Their website

also includes information on the legal obligation that landlords have to maintain habitable

conditions in residential buildings, including following storm-related or other damage:

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/disaster-response.page

People Who Need Assistance

People with Health Issues (NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene). The Health

Department’s website focuses on health emergencies but also covers how to prepare for any

emergency if you have specific health issues such as persons on dialysis and persons with limited

mobility:

http://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/emergency-preparedness/individuals-and-

families-dme.page

How to Register as a Life Sustaining Equipment Customer: Con Edison Special Services, 1-800-

752-6633 (TTY: 800-642-2308) and website:

https://www.coned.com/en/accounts-billing/payment-plans-assistance/special-services

PSE&G Critical Care Program (Rockaways customers): 800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660) and

website:

https://www.psegliny.com/page.cfm/CustomerService/Special/CriticalCare

National Grid NYC Customer Service (Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island customers): 718-643-

4050 (or dial 711 for New York State Relay Service)

National Grid Long Island Customer Service (Rockaways customers): 800-930-5003.

26 
 
NYC Well: For mental health information, a referral, or if you need to talk to someone, call NYC 
Well, New York City's confidential, 24-hour Mental Health Hotline: 888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-
9355) or website: 
https://nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/ 
 
Home Safety and Fire Prevention 
 
Home Safety: 
 
Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors (NYC Department of Housing Preservation and 
Development (HPD)): HPD’s website has information about the legal obligations of landlords and 
tenants to install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: 
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/smoke-carbon-monoxide-
detectors.page 
 
Fire Safety Publications (NYC Fire Department): The Fire Department has posted on its website 
fire safety information on more than 25 different topics, including smoke and carbon monoxide 
alarms: 
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/education/fire-and-life-safety/fire-life-safety.page 
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/education/fire-and-life-safety/fire-safety-educational-
publications.page 
http://www.fdnysmart.org/ 
 
Smoke Alarms (American Red Cross): The Red Cross’s website has information about fire safety 
and smoke alarm installation. The agency and its partners will install a limited number of free 
smoke  alarms  for  those  who  cannot  afford  to  purchase  smoke  alarms  or  for  those  who  are 
physically unable to install a smoke alarm. The Red Cross installs a limited number of specialized 
bedside alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. 
 
For general information: https://www.redcross.org/sound-the-alarm 
For  assistance  with  purchase  or  installation:  http://www.redcross.org/local/new-
york/greater-new-york/home-fire-safety 
 
Fire Prevention 
 
Fire Safety Publications (NYC Fire Department): The Fire Department has posted on its website 
fire safety information on more than 25 different topics, including tips on residential fire safety, 
proper use of fire extinguishers, candle safety, and senior fire safety: 
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/education/fire-and-life-safety/fire-safety-educational-
publications.page 
 
Fire Code Guide (NYC Fire Department). The Fire Department has posted guidance with respect 
to the fire safety requirements set forth in the New York City Fire Code and Fire Department 
rules,  including  candle  safety  and  decorative  alcohol-fueled  fireplaces  (Chapter  3),  Christmas 
tree safety (Chapter 8), and prevention of electrical hazards (Chapter 6): 
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/codes/reference/reference.page 
 
 
   

27 
 
Know Your Building 
 
Fire Safety Publications (NYC Fire Department): The Fire Department has posted on its website 
fire safety information on more than 25 different topics, including building construction: 
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/education/fire-and-life-safety/fire-safety-educational-
publications.page 
 
Building  Construction  (FDNY  Foundation):  The  FDNY  Foundation  is  a  not-for-profit  that 
promotes fire safety education. Its website has information to help you know whether you live 
in a fireproof or non-fire proof building: 
http://www.fdnysmart.org/safetytips/fire-proof-or-non-fire-proof/ 
 
Apartment  Identification  and  Fire  Emergency  Markings  (NYC  Fire  Department).  For  more 
information about apartment identification and fire emergency marking requirements, see NYC 
Fire Code Sections FC505.3 and FC505.4 and Fire Department rules 3 RCNY 505-01 and 505-02. 
The Fire Department has posted the Fire Code and rules on  its website, together with  a Fire 
Code Guide that includes (in Chapter 5) Frequently Asked Questions about these requirements. 
The link to this information is: 
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/codes/fire-code/fire-code.page 
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/codes/fire-department-rules/fire-dept-rules.page 
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/fdny/codes/reference/reference.page 
 
What To Do In A Fire or Non-Fire Emergency 
 
Evacuation Assistance: Lift and Carry Techniques (City of Los Angeles): The different ways one or 
two  persons  can  carry  someone,  with  sketches  and  instructions:  http://www.cert-
la.com/downloads/liftcarry/Liftcarry.pdf 
 
Evacuation  Devices  (NYC  Mayor’s  Office  for  People  with  Disabilities):  The  City  has  posted 
information  about  stair  chairs  and  other  evacuation  devices,  including  considerations  for 
purchasing an evacuation device for use in your building: 
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/mopd/resources/considerations-for-purchasing-an-evacuation-
devise-for-use-in-your-building.page 
 
Power Outages. Contact numbers to report power outages and other utility emergencies are as 
follows: 
 
Utility Company Emergency Numbers: 
Con Edison 24-hour hotline: 800-752-6633 (TTY: 800-642-2308) 
National Grid 24-hour hotline: 800-465-1212 
 
Suspicious  Mail  or  Packages:  The  U.S.  Postal  Service  has  published  information  on  how  to 
protect  yourself,  your  business,  and  your  mailroom  from  a  package  that  contains  a  bomb 
(explosive), radiological, biological, or chemical threat: 
http://about.usps.com/posters/pos84/welcome.htm 
 
   

Terrorism

PlanNow NYC (NYC Emergency Management) is the City website that informs New Yorkers

about potential terrorist actions and other emergencies. The interactive website is designed to

engage New Yorkers about possible emergency scenarios, from an active shooter incident to a

radiological, biological or chemical incident: https://plannownyc.cityofnewyork.us/

Run Hide Fight (City of Houston): The City of Houston has published a video about how the

public should respond to an active shooter incident:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VcSwejU2D0

NYPD Shield (NYC Police Department): NYPD Shield is a Police Department program for building

owners and other private sector businesses to counter terrorism through information sharing:

https://www.nypdshield.org/public/

401-06 (10-25-21 w/cover)