Fire safety challenges in New York City

New York presents significant fire safety challenges due to its unique assortment of building stock. Hundreds of historic buildings lack modern wiring and fire suppression systems, and many undergo uncontrolled conversions that compromise safety. Modern high-rise buildings pose additional risks, with complex evacuation plans and difficult firefighting interventions. Furthermore, the city continuously experiments with construction, incorporating sustainable materials (e.g. timber), innovative designs (e.g. green walls), and evolving energy systems (e.g. solar panels). While these advancements aim for efficiency, they introduce new fire risks that require updated safety regulations and adaptive firefighting strategies.

New Yorkers can be affected by a diverse range of fire hazards in their daily lives. The growing use of e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries has led to an increase in dangerous battery fires, often igniting rapidly in apartments and businesses. Subway fires, caused by electrical faults or debris, disrupt commutes and pose serious risks in enclosed spaces. In the city’s parks, dry conditions can fuel wildfires, threatening green spaces and nearby communities. Fire hazards also emerge after extreme weather events, as seen during Hurricane Sandy, when flooding caused electrical failures and gas leaks that led to fires. Beyond local blazes, New Yorkers are increasingly exposed to wildfire haze from distant fires, reducing air quality and posing health risks.

The igNYte Lab

The igNYte Lab is a cutting-edge fire research laboratory dedicated to advancing fire safety through science and technology. The lab develops advanced diagnostics to enhance firefighting strategies and emergency responses, supporting the long-term efforts of the FDNY. As part of NYU Tandon School of Engineering, igNYte educates students on the complex scientific challenges of fire safety, providing hands-on experience in fire dynamics. The lab also leverages expertise in scientific machine learning (SciML) to drive innovative research in fire modeling and prediction. By developing diagnostics and computational tools, igNYte supports large-scale fire experiments conducted at external research facilities, ensuring that its research translates into real-world impact.