The NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, known as March Madness, began its first round on Thursday with several closely contested matchups between closely seeded teams.[1]

The New York City Fire Department used the excitement surrounding the tournament to remind residents of fire hydrant safety protocols. In a post on X, the FDNY noted that blocking fire hydrants with parked vehicles is illegal in New York City and can delay emergency responses during critical incidents.[2]

Fire hydrants must remain accessible for firefighters to connect hoses quickly. New York City law prohibits parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, with fines up to $500 for violations.[2]

Separately, the "Thank You, NYPD" campaign continues to foster public appreciation for the New York Police Department. St. John's University men's basketball head coach Rick Pitino, hired in December 2023, participated by posting a message thanking NYPD officers for their role in city safety.[3]

Pitino's video was shared on Madison Square Garden's Instagram account on Friday.

Sources

1. NCAA
   March Madness
   Accessed October 2024
   https://www.ncaa.com/march-madness
2. New York City Fire Department (FDNY)
   Illegal Parking Near Fire Hydrants
   Accessed October 2024
   https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/safety/fire-safety-home/illegal-parking.page
3. St. John's University Athletics
   Rick Pitino - Men's Basketball Coach
   Accessed October 2024
   https://redstormsports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/rick-pitino/5758