FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY - DRILLS

Fire drills are not just a checkbox for compliance. They are one of the simplest ways to reduce panic, speed evacuation, and improve decision-making when a real alarm sounds. When drills are run correctly, occupants know what to do, staff know what to enforce, and your building is better prepared for both fire and non-fire emergencies.

NY Fire Consultants helps building owners, property managers, and safety teams run drills the right way. Our FDNY-certified Fire and Emergency Drill Conductors lead clear, code-compliant drills, activate the alarm as required, deliver live floor-by-floor instruction, and support proper recordkeeping so you are prepared for inspections and audits.

In 2026, New York City fire drill requirements are governed by NYC Fire Code Section 401.7 and 3 RCNY §401-07, which mandate specific frequencies and procedures based on a building’s occupancy type.

Drill Frequency by Building Type

• High-Rise Office (Group B): Semiannually (every 6 months)
  
  Required participants: All building occupants
• Hotels (Group R-1): Quarterly per shift
  
  Required participants: Building staff (guests optional)
• Schools (Group E): 12 per year (8 by Dec 31)
  
  Required participants: All students and staff
• Colleges and Universities: 3 per year (at least 1 after sunset)
  
  Required participants: All occupants
• Day Care Facilities: Monthly
  
  Required participants: All occupants
• Shelters: Monthly
  
  Required participants: All occupants
• New Buildings: Quarterly for the first 2 years
  
  Required participants: All occupants

Key Compliance Rules

• Qualified personnel: All of our drill conductors are FDNY certified Fire and Emergency Drill Conductors (F-07/W-07).
• Mandatory participation: Building owners and employers are legally required to ensure all specified occupants participate in these drills.
• Method of instruction: Drills must be conducted through live instruction on each floor. They must include fire safety procedures and, in many buildings, non-fire emergency (Emergency Action Plan) education.
• Alarm activation: The fire alarm system must be activated during the drill to familiarize occupants with the tones.
• Recordkeeping: A written record of every drill must be maintained on the premises in a logbook for at least 3 years and be available for FDNY inspection.

Non-Compliance Penalties

The FDNY resumed full enforcement of drill requirements on May 1, 2023. Failure to conduct or document drills can result in significant fines and legal penalties. Property owners should confirm the exact requirements for their facility based on occupancy type and use.