Become Escape Well Savvy
Many newer homes with lower levels include an egress emergency exit. These exits usually include a large window and access to the outside. This access is often accomplished using a window well. Window wells come in all shapes and sizes. But sometimes key components to egress window well safety are missing.
Often I hear about egress window wells that are significantly deep – greater than 3 feet – not including escape ladders. Something a simple and inexpensive as a ladder can be crucial to keeping your family safe. Imagine an emergency in a home – loved ones open the window, climb into the window well, only to find that there is no ladder. What if that well is very deep? What if the person in the escape well is 10 years old? What if?
Now imagine a typical summer day in the backyard. Family and friends have gathered for a barbeque. Young children are running around playing – chasing the beloved pet. What is going to keep this child from accidently falling into the well? What if the pet falls into the well? What if your father stumbles into the well? A window well cover can protect your family, friends and pets from becoming seriously injured due to a fall into the window well. It’s a small thing to do to ensure your family’s safety!
Also, homeowners are turning to the addition of egress windows and window wells to transform basements into living areas. This can be a great idea for some families – adding living space and possibly increasing the value of a home. Make sure that when you embark on these projects you consider building codes. There are many codes specific to egress windows and window wells. Become educated – understand your responsibilities for yourself – don’t just depend on a builder or remodeler.
In order to learn which codes need to be followed and how they will affect you and your construction project, contact your local building inspection department, office of planning and zoning, and/or department of permits. You may want to start by calling the most local government body that has jurisdiction over the property where you will be building. They should be able to provide you with specific information about which building codes are used as guidelines in your area. Ask for any updates and modifications that have been added by the local jurisdiction. Local boards, councils, and assemblies frequently exclude portions of “standard” codes and/or adopt requirements that are not specifically prescribed in code books. Depending upon other specifics about your project — including but not limited to whether or not you have a well, septic system, wetlands, sensitive environmental conditions, or public use areas — you may also be subject to state and/or federal requirements.
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