FDNY Department Orders Shut Down Businesses with Unsafe Lithium-Ion Batteries

In a move aimed at ensuring public safety, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has ordered the shut down of two businesses found to be storing and charging lithium-ion batteries in unsafe ways. The department's efforts are part of its ongoing campaign to identify and address potential fire hazards in the city.

The first business, located on 5th Avenue in Chinatown, was discovered to have an excessive number of batteries, some with illegal modifications. Inspectors found that the building, which had residents living above the store, posed a significant risk of fire. The FDNY described the location as 'essentially a ticking time bomb.'

The second business, located on Canal Street in Brooklyn, was also found to be operating unsafely. Fire officials removed over 100 unsafe batteries from the premises and stored them in barrels outside. The department issued multiple criminal and departmental summonses to the operators of both businesses.

In addition to shutting down the two businesses, FDNY has issued vacate orders for an operation at 91 Canal Street and 5709 5th Avenue. The department is encouraging citizens to report any unsafe operations they may have observed and will be re-visiting locations that were previously inspected and cited for violations.

Since last week, FDNY has conducted 38 inspections of shops and other locations suspected of storing or charging batteries in unsafe ways. These efforts are part of the department's ongoing campaign to ensure public safety and prevent fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.

As FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavenagh emphasized at a recent news conference, 'If you are operating a business that is improperly charging, storing or tampering with lithium-ion batteries, we will find you, we will fine you and we will shut you down.' The department's message is clear: public safety must take precedence over profits.

In the coming days and weeks, it is likely that FDNY will continue to conduct inspections and issue summonses to businesses found to be operating unsafely. As a result, citizens can expect to see increased enforcement activity aimed at preventing fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.

Overall, the FDNY's efforts are a vital step in ensuring public safety and protecting New Yorkers from potential harm. By taking swift action against businesses that fail to follow safety protocols, the department is demonstrating its commitment to keeping the city safe and secure.

Fdny department orders