Troubling News on Fire Safety in NYC Public Schools

A Daily News article published yesterday quoted an inspector for the School Construction Authority (SCA) who was demoted after warning his superiors about inadequate fire prevention systems in New York City public schools. The inspector, Roy Van Allen, identified problems with fire standpipes and fire suppression systems in four different schools: PS 125 in Harlem, PS 303, PS 245, and Law and Justice High School in Queens.

In response to Mr. Van Allen’s revelations, Public Advocate Gotbaum said: “I am deeply troubled by today’s news. Not only could students be at serious risk in the event of a fire, but it also appears that the city may have retaliated against an inspector who tried to do the right thing. If these allegations are true, the SCA and FDNY must immediately conduct a full review of sprinklers, fire standpipes, and fire hydrants on public school properties throughout the city. There is no room for debate on this issue—New York City schools should be held to the highest standards of safety.” 

(PS 125 in Harlem is pictured on right)

Comments

[Ajlouny]

I am full agreement. There is no room to wait on this issue. There are lives at stake and it should be addressed as soon as possible.