Res. No. 244
Resolution calling upon the Fire Department of the City of New York to either develop alternative methods for administering training and medicals such that no ladder or engine company is ever closed or to temporarily staff any ladder or engine company that is closed for training or medicals.
By Council Members Recchia, Jr., Clarke, Fidler, Foster, Gentile, Gerson and Nelson
Whereas, The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) may close engine and ladder companies in order for firefighters to take medical exams and receive training; and
Whereas, Regular medical exams and training are critical for the proper maintenance of the city’s firefighting capabilities; and
Whereas, Engine and ladder companies protect particular areas of the city and it is essential that all areas of the city receive full fire protection 365 days per year; and
Whereas, On January 15, 2004, Lillian Hecht, the wife of retired Rabbi Abraham Hecht from the Congregation Shaare Zion Temple, was killed in a fire in their Brooklyn home; and
Whereas, The nearest ladder company to Lillian Hecht, Ladder Company 153, was closed for the day so firefighters could be given physicals; and
Whereas, Although Engine Company 254 responded three minutes after a neighbor called 911, it was too late to save Lillian Hecht; and
Whereas, Ladder companies conduct search and rescue for victims at fire scenes and engine companies are responsible for extinguishing flames; and
Whereas, Had Ladder Company 153 not been closed on January 15, 2004, it is possible that Lillian Hecht could still be with us today; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the Fire Department of the City of New York to either develop alternative methods for administering training and medicals such that no ladder or engine company is ever closed or to temporarily staff any ladder or engine company that is closed for training or medicals.
LS # 357
RBU
03/18/2004