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Ladders Used for Fire Safety

Home escape ladders offer a valuable alternate evacuation tool in the event of a fire. They come in different types and lengths for use in two and three-story homes. Families should be knowledgeable in their proper use and storage in the event of an emergency. These ladders can make the difference between life and death in a home fire.

  1. Types

    • Escape ladders are available to be permanently installed in a home or in a portable variation. The permanent ladders can be attached to or built into the structure. Those that are built in are set into motion by moving a lever in the room's wall. The portable ladders are hooked to the widow in the room and drop down the side of the house. The permanent variety is more stable than the portable ones, but both are excellent tools for fire safety.

    Features

    • These ladders come in lengths of either 15 or 25 feet. Those measuring 15 feet are used for homes with two stories, while the longer length is more suitable for three-story dwellings. Standoffs are a key feature of these ladders, which are projections that set the rungs of the ladder out from the side of the house. They are essential for keeping the ladder stable and providing adequate space for a foothold. Ladders should be rated to hold a minimum of 1,000 pounds.

    Proper Use

    • Escape ladders should not be used around radiators or other obstructions.

      The ladder needs to be utilized on a window that is structurally strong enough to hold it. The windowsill should be checked for any weakness or damage before using the ladder. The ladder should never be used by a window that is blocked by an air conditioner, heater or furniture. Storm windows and those with screens can also be problematic for ladder use. The area near the window should be kept clear. Store the ladder near the window in an easy-to-find location.

    Precautions

    • Escape ladders should be part of a complete home fire escape plan. They should only be used when the primary evacuation route is too dangerous to use. According to the National Fire Protection Association, families should have an escape ladder in each inhabited room on the upper stories of a home. Families should practice using the ladder, with each member learning how to hook it on the window and climb out. This should be done from a first story window with adult supervision.

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