F Rules for Open Flames, Candles, and Pyrotechnics 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under what circumstances can open flames be used in a place of assembly in NYC?
- Whenever the venue owner approves
- Only with a valid FDNY permit and proper safety measures (Correct answer)
- Open flames are never permitted
- Only on religious holidays
Correct answer: Only with a valid FDNY permit and proper safety measures
Open flames require a valid FDNY permit and compliance with specific safety requirements including proper clearances, fire suppression equipment, and designated supervision.
Question 2: What is the minimum clearance distance required between candles and combustible materials?
- 6 inches
- 12 inches (Correct answer)
- 24 inches
- 36 inches
Correct answer: 12 inches
A minimum clearance of at least 12 inches should be maintained between open flames (including candles) and combustible materials, decorations, and other flammable items.
Question 3: Votive candles used in a place of assembly must be placed in what type of container?
- Paper cups
- Non-combustible holders that prevent tipping (Correct answer)
- Wooden holders for aesthetic purposes
- Any decorative container
Correct answer: Non-combustible holders that prevent tipping
Votive candles and all open flames must be placed in non-combustible, tip-resistant holders that will contain the flame and any melted wax if the candle is knocked over.
Question 4: Indoor fireworks or pyrotechnic effects require what special personnel?
- Any venue employee
- A licensed pyrotechnic operator and fire guard presence (Correct answer)
- The event promoter only
- No special personnel with a permit
Correct answer: A licensed pyrotechnic operator and fire guard presence
Indoor pyrotechnics must be operated by a licensed pyrotechnic operator, and an F-03 fire guard must be present to monitor conditions and be prepared to respond to any fire emergency.
Question 5: Sterno cans (canned heat) used for warming food in a place of assembly require what precaution?
- No special precautions
- Placement on non-combustible surfaces with adequate clearance from combustibles (Correct answer)
- A special FDNY permit for each can
- They must be enclosed in a fireproof box
Correct answer: Placement on non-combustible surfaces with adequate clearance from combustibles
Sterno cans must be placed on stable, non-combustible surfaces with adequate clearance from tablecloths, decorations, and other combustible materials. Proper ventilation should also be maintained.
Question 6: A venue wants to use sparklers as part of a champagne bottle presentation. Is this allowed?
- Yes, sparklers are not considered open flames
- Only with proper FDNY permits and safety precautions (Correct answer)
- Yes, as long as they're held over the dance floor
- Sparklers are always prohibited indoors
Correct answer: Only with proper FDNY permits and safety precautions
Sparklers produce hot sparks and are considered open flames/pyrotechnics. They require FDNY approval and safety measures including clearances and fire suppression readiness.
F Rules for Open Flames, Candles, and Pyrotechnics 2
Under what circumstances can open flames be used in a place of assembly in NYC?