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FDNY: June 2015 Marks First Month In 150 Years With No Recorded NYC Fire Deaths

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- June 2015 marked the first month on record in 150 years that the FDNY reported no fire fatalities, Commissioner Daniel Nigro announced Wednesday.

So far this year, there have been 29 fire deaths, the FDNY said. In the past five years, fewer New Yorkers have died in fires than any comparable five-year period going back to 1916, the FDNY said.

A total of 62 people died in fires in New York City in 2010, 66 in 2011, 58 in 2012, 67 in 2013, and 71 in 2014. The highest number on record ever was 310 fire deaths in 1970.

"This achievement is a testament to the outstanding performance by our Firefighters, Paramedics and EMTs to quickly respond to fires and treat the injured, as well as the extensive work by our Fire Safety Education Unit to educate the public on ways to prevent fires and remain fire safe," Commissioner Nigro said in a news release. "The historic reduction in fire-related deaths over the last several years clearly demonstrates the Department's efforts are making a significant impact and saving lives in communities throughout the city."

The FDNY encouraged New Yorkers to visit FDNYSmart.org for fire safety education information, and follow @FDNY on Twitter for the latest fire safety tips.

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