Across New York City, the FDNY has 22 Surf Rescue Companies stationed along the coast. Members of these companies receive specialized training in water rescues and carry extra equipment designed for emergencies in the water. The FDNY responds to hundreds of water-related emergencies every year, especially during times when lifeguards aren’t on duty. To help protect yourself, always follow safety guidelines when swimming—whether in a pool or along the city’s 520 miles of coastline. Only swim in a

What is a Surf Rescue Company? Outside of responding to fire-related emergencies, surf rescue companies focus on water-based emergencies, which are most common during the summer beach season. Equipped with rescue surf boards, wet suits, and flotation devices, Ladder Company 121 is one of the seven #FDNY surf rescue companies in Rockaway, Queens. Remember to swim only when lifeguards are present, stay alert, and avoid any dangerous situations. | New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

WATCH: A brief documentary produced by the Fire Department of the City of New York in the aftermath, at what was then, the deadliest day in FDNY history. 12 FDNY Firefighters were killed in the line of duty on October 17, 1966, an incident that has come to be known within the Department as the “23rd Street Fire.” Visit the FDNY Facebook page on Monday, October 17, 2016, at 12:15 pm EST, to watch a live stream of the 50th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony to be held at the scene of the fire on 2