The Fire Safety Unit (FSU) consists of Correction Officers and Civilians who work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their mission is to ensure optimum fire safety at DOC facilities for all occupants. FSU has taken full responsibility to maintain the department’s 100-million-dollar investment of newly installed fire alarm systems and the contract to test, inspect and maintain these vital Life Safety fire alarm systems in accordance with FDNY rules and codes.
Monitoring – FSU Staff monitors fire safety activities of all vendors and contractors who perform testing, inspection, and maintenance of fire alarm systems and equipment, ensuring compliance with all NYC Fire Codes and DOC Directives. FSU Civilian Program Specialist monitors DOC Facility Fire Alarm systems 24 hours a day and immediately notify on-duty FSU Officers and Senior FSU staff whenever a fire alarm is activated.
Responding – FSU Staff are first responders to all fire incidents including fire alarm activations and other DOC emergencies whenever warranted. During these responses, FSU Officers assist Facilities during a fire/smoke condition, ensure that small fires are extinguished, occupants are safely evacuated and conduct preliminary arson investigations. FSU serves as the designated liaison between the DOC and responding FDNY units.
Inspections – FSU Staff conduct the annual fire safety inspection at all DOC facilities, ensuring that Facilities maintain a high level of fire safety compliance with relevant codes and Directives. The Fire Safety Unit also coordinates with FDNY Battalions that respond to our Facilities and review entrance procedures, perform inspections and discuss relevant topics and concerns.
Training – FSU staff works with the Correction Academy to develop and deliver fire safety training for all new Correction Officers, newly promoted Captains and Assistant Deputy Wardens, to ensure they are ready to respond to all fire emergencies in accordance with our Fire Safety Directives. FSU Officers also conduct site-specific training sessions for facilities when requested by Wardens and conduct and evaluate fire evacuation drills conducted at all DOC facilities.