Head of NYC Committee on Fire and Emergency Management talks next steps after spike in fires

WNYC News | 8 hours ago

A spike in fires from lithium ion batteries, such as those used to power e-bikes and scooters, has many people, especially those in densely populated neighborhoods, feeling on edge.

The FDNY reports there have been 406 battery fires this year, resulting in 70 injuries and 9 deaths. That's compared to 241 battery fires for the same time last year, with a single death.

Council Speaker Julie Menin has called an emergency joint oversight hearing for next Friday, led by Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, who chairs the Committee on Housing and Buildings, and Councilmember Joann Ariola, the Chair of the Committee on Fire and Emergency Management.

Councilmember Ariola joined WNYC's Morning Edition host Michael Hill to talk about the next steps. 
 

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