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Posted March 23, 2017

Egress Windows – A Line of Safety for your Family

The other evening I had the opportunity to work with one of our project managers, and it so happened that the project we were asked to bid was an egress (escape) window.

The homeowners were engaged in a rather extensive remodeling of the basement, turning it into a very livable recreation, media, and crafts level of the home. Their objective was to add light to the area, as well as a way in and out of the basement other than the stairway at the far end of the room.

There were 3 young boys playing in the rec room and mom was on her computer in the craft room.

We never did discuss probably the most important topic relative to egress windows, the survivability of one’s home in the event of a fire.

According to FEMA, there are an average of 6500 basement fires in the United States annually, resulting in about 65 deaths and 400 injuries. While it might seem that a basement fire could happen to someone else, the fact that there are nearly 20 such fires every night is sobering.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/statistics/v15i10.pdf

If you have a lower level you intend to utilize as living space, make sure you research options for exit in the event of a fire. Whether a window or several windows, a second door, or access by a second stairway, it’s critical to understand that one way out may not be enough in an emergency, especially for younger family members or pets.

Your egress window contractor should be able to suggest ideas and alternatives that will make your lower level living space not only safe but also a great investment.

Our company, Basement Repair Specialists, has installed hundreds of egress windows and can recommend the best solution for your home. If you have an egress window project, please make sure you do your research and hire a reputable company with experience in this type of installation. Your family and your wallet will thank you.