Hotdog, the FDNY Fire Safety Mascot, poses in front of a special truck commemorating the department’s 150 years of service to the city. Photo Courtesy FDNY.
The city this year is celebrating 150 years of New York’s Bravest, and last weekend firehouses across the five boroughs opened their apparatus-floor doors to their respective communities for tours, food and fun for fire buffs of all ages.
A future probie tries on turnout gear. Photo Courtesy FDNY.
Firefighters and officers from firehouses such as the “Cross Bay Flukes” of Engine Co. 331/Ladder Co. 173 in Howard Beach and the “Blazing Saddles” at Engine Co. 285/Ladder Co. 142 in Ozone Park welcomed the public they protect into their second homes, introduced them to their second families and showed the grateful residents the kind of equipment they use to fight fires, rescue building-collapse victims and attend to medical emergencies.
Throughout the day firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians educated the public about fire and life safety, conducted demonstrations, and discussed the department’s storied history.
“For a century and a half, FDNY members have risked their lives bravely protecting life and property in our city—an enduring commitment steeped in pride and tradition,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro.
Days later, on Tuesday, Nigro presided over the graduation ceremony of the latest class of probationary firefighters.
“The FDNY has thrived for 150 years because young men and women like the outstanding Probationary Firefighters we are celebrating step forward to bravely protect life and property in our great city,” Nigro said. “This group of Probies joins the Department at a time when we are busier than ever before—responding to 1.6 million emergencies last year alone—and as we continue to better represent the city we so proudly serve.”
“The Cross Bay Flukes” are at Engine Co. 331/Ladder Co. 173 in Howard Beach. Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza.
Originally dubbed “Blazing Saddles” the headquarters of Engine Co. 285/Ladder Co. 142 are at 103-17 98th St. in Ozone Park. Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza.
By Michael V. Cusenza michael@theforumnewsgroup.com
