Safe With Fire Ladders
If you live in an apartment building or work in a building that has several floors, then you know that getting out of the building if there is a fire will likely be a challenge. One of the things that most larger buildings have at many windows is a fire escape ladder. These are commonly found outside of apartment buildings in large cities to make it easier for residents to get out of harm’s way in the event of a fire. There are a few safety tips that you want to keep in mind when you use the ladder so that you get from your floor to the ground below in a safe manner.
Most ladders are placed on the third story floors or above. This is because the ladder is usually taller than the bottom floors. Every occupied room in the building above these floors should have an escape ladder. If there isn’t one present, then you should check with management to get one put in place. Along with the ladder, there should also be a fire detector in the room to give a warning if there is a fire.
Ladders should be tested by a nationally recognized company before being placed. You want to test the ladders when they are installed outside the building to make sure that they will hold the weight of the people who use them. Ladders should be placed in an area that is near a window. The occupant should easily be able to slide a window open and reach the ladder without having to climb onto a ledge or a balcony. However, if the balcony is secure, there are sometimes ladders that are attached on the side to give the people in the building a platform to stand on while each person gets to the ground so that they are out of the room. All family members, office workers and other people who are in the building should know where the ladder is located before a fire takes place. Make a plan of action to ensure that all people get out in a short time, practicing the routine in various weather situations and when everyone is home.
