SUKKAH FIRE SAFETY

JCRC

As we celebrate the holiday of Sukkoth, here are some important suggestions from the New York City FDNY and Israel's Fire and Rescue Services documents to help keep the holiday a joyous one:

Electrical safety

  • Check your wiring and extension cords. They should be listed for outdoor use and in good condition.
  • Do not overload your electrical circuits.
  • All electrical connections should be made by adults or under appropriate supervision.
  • Follow all of the instructions and warnings found on appliances.

Fire and burn safety

  • Have a fire extinguisher handy.
  • Don’t leave young children in the Sukkah without proper supervision.
  • Don't leave young children in your kitchen without proper supervision, especially when you're using a "blech".
  • When lighting candles in a Sukkah (or on any occasion), make sure that the candlesticks are stable and kept away from any flammable materials. They should be placed where they can’t be knocked over by animals or children.

Get more tips by following the links to the complete documents.

FDNY Read Fire Safety for Jewish Observances, an excellent guide produced by the Fire Department of the City of New York, available in English and Yiddish. Special thanks to FDNY Chaplain (and New York Board of Rabbis Executive Vice President) Rabbi Joe Potasnik, the Bureau of Fire Prevention and the FDNY Foundation for their efforts.

Sukkah

New Technical Bulletin from New York State

A Technical Bulletin: “How is a Sukkah Regulated by the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code?" is now available from New York State. In past years some inspectors issued violations to Sukkah owners. The bulletin makes clear that most Sukkoth are temporary structures, similar to a tent (thereby not subject to building codes). However, fire safety recommendations should be followed.

Thanks to Ronald Piester and Dan Nichols of NY State Department of State, Division of Code Enforcement and Administration and especially, Ross Wallenstein of Governor Paterson's office for their help. It should help to avoid needless enforcement while maintaining proper safety considerations. Click here to download a copy.