State Fire Marshal: Only Install Home Security Bars With Quick-Release Device
Security bars are a common method of household protection against burglary. While burglar bars keep criminals out, the
According to the
Between 2012 and 2016, another 12 residents died where locked exits were a contributing factor. On average, around four people die every year in
"Protecting our home and our loved ones is a top concern for Tennesseans," said State Fire Marshal and Commerce & Insurance Commissioner
* Windows with security bars, grills or similar devices for home security should have easy-to-use quick-release devices from inside the home. These devices allow the bars to be opened for emergency escape without compromising the security of your home. The quick-release devices should be easy to open without the use of a key, detailed knowledge, or great physical effort.
* Release devices vary by region and manufacturer. Contact your local fire department on a non-emergency number for information on approved release devices available in your area.
* If the security bars on your home are permanently fixed or do not have quick-release devices, they can and should be retrofitted with release devices. Kits are available to retrofit/upgrade security bars with a quick-release device. Contact your local fire department on a non-emergency number for further information on how to retrofit your security bars.
* Make sure that all people staying in the home, including children, know how to operate the release.
* An occupant's risk from unsafe burglar bars is compounded greatly where there is no working smoke alarm. With the early warning provided by a working smoke alarm, people have a chance to extinguish an incipient fire or leave through exits. In many cases where there are multiple fatalities due to burglar bar entrapment, there often is not a working smoke alarm.
* Security bars on windows and locked doors not only prevent escape from fire, but can also impede rescue attempts. In a fire, the difference between life and death can often be measured in seconds. Bars without a quick-release device can delay the entry efforts of firefighters and other first responders, taking up valuable rescue time.
For more home fire safety information or to download a free copy of the 2018
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