Maintaining Fire Escapes

10/2/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Escape

Fire escapes are one of the things we don’t really think about when we think about being prepared for a fire. Sure we’d use them in the event of an emergency, but what if we haven’t maintained them properly? If your fire escape isn’t well maintained, it could become just as hazardous to use as the fire. It is so important that the fire escapes in your home or business are well maintained so that they’re ready for you to use in the event of a catastrophic fire. Habitat has a list of things you should do in order to keep your fire escapes safe and usable;

• Schedule annual maintenance inspections with an engineer
• If something shows signs of wear, it may need a supporting angle or reinforcing plate welded to it
• If the steel has badly deteriorated, the beams will need to be removed and replaced with new ones
• All joints around penetrations should be caulked to keep water out
• Loose steps, railings, platform slats, handrails, and other metal pieces should be bolted or welded
• Before new paint is applied, all rust must be scraped off as well as any loose, blistering, peeling, or flaking paint

The last thing you want during a fire is one of your escape routes becoming unusable because it would collapse under the weight of the people fleeing the fire. It is vital to know the condition of your fire escapes and make sure they are up to code and safe to use. Because a fire won’t wait until you’ve fixed them to burn.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.