Windows don’t simply beautify your home’s exterior and illuminate your indoor spaces, they are also vital to your safety. In case of an emergency, you can use them to quickly and safely escape your home. Nearly all residential codes require bedrooms and other sleeping areas to have a secondary exit route, which is usually a window.
If you need to do a quick window safety check, here are some questions you should ask.
Do You Have an Emergency Fire Escape Plan?
Make sure that your family has an emergency escape plan and that you practice it from time to time. Your plan should include two means of escape in every room. Keep in mind that children may need to use windows to escape a fire. Teach them how to safely use a window in this situation. You also need to have a safe meeting place outside.
Have You Left Your Windows Open Because You Thought Insect Screens Can Prevent Falls?
Insect screens don’t guarantee safety from falls. They are added to windows and doors to ventilate spaces while keeping away insects. Screens will not prevent someone from falling from a window.
Do You Keep Windows Closed When There Are Children?
Keep your windows closed at all times when there are children around. However, you can open units that are out of reach of children. It would help to set rules about keeping children away from windows and patio doors. There also shouldn’t be furniture under windows where children can climb.
Do You Have Guards or Security Bars in Your Windows?
If your windows have guards or security bard, you won’t be able to use them during an emergency. Time is of the essence when escaping a fire. Ask your local fire department or building code official to learn about the right window guard placement.
At Renewal by Andersen® of Kansas City, our home improvement experts can help you determine ways to improve the safety of your windows. Call us at (913) 385-1300 or fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation. We work with clients in Kansas City.
