Keeping connected
disputatio incendium
- Order
supellex - Family
acta - Genus
ignem - Species
disputatio incendium - Subspecies
d. i. machina
d. i. pello
Description
The Fire Callbox is a permanent device used to notify the fire department of a fire. Prior to widespread installation of telephones, they were the primary way to summon the FDNY.
Identification
Callbox has evolved into different features throughout the years, with red plumage defining a defining feature; FDNY and NYPD call buttons, and perforated stainless steel plate. Many older examples feature cast–iron base, shaft, and crown; newer examples feature rectangular bent steel monolith. H 5’-0”—6’-2” (1.52m—1.83m); L 1’-0” (0.30m); W 1’-0” (0.30m).
Variations:
- d. i. machina
Mechanical Box
Physical pull connected to a spring-wound mechanism which opens and closes an electrical circuit. - d. i. pello
Emergency Reporting System
Newer boxes with push-buttons for FDNY and NYPD, with voice functionality. Installed where high false alarms were experienced.
Habitat
Fire callboxes are typically situated on city sidewalks, at street intersections, and near public buildings. Their placement is strategic, ensuring accessibility in emergencies.
Range
Throughout the Five Boroughs. Once ubiquitous throughout NYC, the presence of functional fire callboxes has diminished with the advent of mobile technology.
See more
Examples
Discussion
Since New York City was founded in 1624, the FDNY has evolved from a series of street gangs to the most professional firefighting department in America starting in 1648 when the first fire ordinance was adopted. In response to growing and denser population, the FDNY installed call boxes throughout the city in order to facilitate faster call response. While many have been decommissioned due to modern communication advancements, some remain as historical artifacts or have been repurposed for other uses.
Climate impacts
The system is powered from a central plant (much like landline telephones) which reduces generating emissions through economies of scale. It isn’t clear how long the system will be maintained, due to high maintenance costs and the ubiquity of mobile phones. However during the 2003 blackout, the callboxes were fully operational, and there is resistance to removal from the City Council and community groups.
Further reading
- Wikipedia Article: Fire alarm call box
- Wikipedia media gallery: New York City Police-Fire Call Boxes Photo gallery
