Celebrate 150 years with the FDNY

The Fire Department of New York celebrates 150 years of service in 2015. And there’s no better way to kick off the historic anniversary than attending the 110th Progressive Insurance New York Boat Show.

“ Everyone attending theboatshowwill have the opportunity to learn more about our great marine history throughboatdisplays and photographs, and by talking to several of New York’s Bravest,” says spokesperson Frank Dwyer.

This is the chance for New Yorkers to learn all about the FDNY, from its founding in 1865 to more recent events like 2009’s Miracle on the Hudson. The fire department’s marine unit has played a big role in the shaping of NYC: “ On Sept. 11, 2001, FDNY fireboats were the only source of water to fight fires burning at the World Trade Center,” Dwyer says. “In the years that followed, the FDNY fleet was modernized with new, faster, larger and more powerfulboats.” A few of these vessels, some of which also deployed rescue operations during Superstorm Sandy, will be on display this week.

Fans of the fire department may want to come by on FDNY Friday, when firefighters are welcome to stop by all day for free. Every day, however, guests are invited to snap a photo with members of the fire department – and then enter a contest for the chance to win a ride on a functioning fireboat (pictured above) by posting their photo to social media with hashtag #FDNY150.

But the celebration and fire safety education doesn’t end this weekend. “ We’ll be holding celebrations throughout the city and throughout the year,” Dwyer says, “including hosting a dozen community celebrations in all five boroughs that will feature food, games and fun for children and families.”

For more about upcoming events in your neighborhood, visit www.fdnysmart.org or www.fdnyfoundation.org.