The Importance of a Fire Escape

The Importance of a Fire Escape

A fire escape is a pathway over which people can flee from rooms in danger of burning or that can be used by firefighters to reach a room. They may also be known as fire escape ladders or fire escape windows. A fire escape should be accessible to all occupants, free from barriers and obstructions that could block their passage. Fire escapes are often overlooked, but they can be a valuable lifeline in times of emergency.

In the days before fire safety codes, many buildings had these pathways in place, albeit with much different designs. Some were as simple as the ladders on a window sill, and some were more elaborate, like a railed bridge over a gap between buildings. However, these devices were not without their flaws. It was common for them to collapse during their only use – when people were trying to use them to flee from flames or smoke.

As time passed, laws changed, and fire escapes were required to be built into new buildings. Eventually, they were even mandated in older buildings as well. But, they were still not a favorite among city dwellers, who found them ugly, useless, and potentially deadly.

Some hid ropes and ladders in false refrigerators, bolted down blanket chests to use as steps, and designed pulley systems that would lower residents to safety on the ground. Some even slept in rooms with doors open so they could quickly run out on to their roofs and onto a fire escape when the alarm went off.

After the deadly blaze in 1835, the law was finally changed, and fire escapes were mandated in private homes as well. They also became a common feature in hotels. However, many of them were not maintained properly. They fell into disrepair, and rust and corrosion weakened their supports and railings. In addition, they were often covered up with junk and used for everything from a jungle gym to a place to hang the washing.

If your fire escape is not in good condition, have it inspected by a professional fire protection contractor. The inspection should include a look at the stairway and the ladder, as well as the support brackets, and railings. A good contractor will remove any rust, clean the structure and apply protective coatings.

Make an evacuation plan with your family. Draw a diagram using an online tool like this one, and add your exit routes and meeting spot. Make sure everyone knows the emergency phone number and how to call it from a neighbor’s house or their cellular phones. Have your family practice their escape routes on a regular basis. Also, keep doors and windows clear so they can be opened easily during an emergency. Lastly, be sure to keep your meeting place outdoors away from your home’s driveway or street so it is easy for firefighters to find you.