SUPERVISING INSPECTOR TAIWO ADEBO
Bureau of Fire Prevention
1. What is your name, title and years at FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?
My name is Taiwo Adebo. I’m a Level 1 supervising fire prevention inspector. I have been working for the suppression unit for more than 10 years. Currently, I’m assigned to the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement, and part of what we do is respond to community complaints related to illegal housing, short-term rental and, of course, faulty fire protection systems.
For example, we get a complaint that there is a building being used for short-term rental. We respond to the complaint by going to the premises. We knock on the door and ask for access. And if we are given access, we inspect the premises to see if there’s people living there and how long they have been staying there. In New York City, there are rules that guide how you use your residence. We determine if any of the codes are being violated and notify the owner to correct the issues.
2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?
My desire to make a positive impact in our community. I’ve seen a lot of emergencies, and I believe educating people will help create an enhanced level of awareness. Knowing that I could be part of the family, part of a team that can help create a safer community, made me want to be a fire inspector.
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?
The first day that I started working and was given the uniform, I had this feeling inside me:
I felt like Superman at that moment, taking on a big responsibility. Being a link between the people and the agency is one of the reasons I love this job.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
It means peace, it means courage, it means that you can depend on us, and it means that we’re the best.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
My instinct. Being able to take control of situations when I find myself in either an intimidating or a scary situation, being able to control, be calm, stay focused and not get distracted.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
Creating awareness, letting people know how important fire protection systems are, making them aware of how very little things that can create a fire, teaching people how to deal with fire situations and also giving them resources, places where they could get information to help them respond to crisis situations.