FDNY Forms Task Force to Combat Rising NYC Brush Fires

The new initiative aims to address the surge in fires during an unprecedented dry spell in the city.

The FDNY has launched its first-ever Brush Fire Task Force in response to a historic increase in brush fires across New York City.
From November 1 to November 14, the FDNY responded to 271 brush fires, marking the highest number in a two-week period in the city's history.
The task force includes fire marshals, inspectors, and drone units, focusing on rapid response, fire cause investigations, and real-time data collection during fires.
Drones will be used to survey at-risk areas, map fire spread, and assess damage, providing crucial information to firefighters.
The initiative follows the tragic death of 18-year-old Dariel Vasquez and ongoing efforts to contain the Jennings Creek wildfire, which has burned over 5,000 acres.