With summer’s end and fall temperatures arriving, fire safety comes back into focus, as Fire Prevention Week is recognized October 6-12, 2024, in the U.S. When it comes to a fire emergency, the Window Safety Task Force reminds everyone that doors and windows are the primary and secondary escape routes during an emergency, such as a fire.

How prepared are you to escape safely in a fire?

“We are all aware that home fires can spread quickly and can be caused by a number of things,” said Angela Dickson, Co-chair of the Window Safety Task Force and Marketing and Communications Director for the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA). That is why the Window Safety Task Force encourages everyone to develop and test a fire escape plan at least twice a year, taking into account that windows may need to be used as a secondary means of escape, explained Dickson. “Don’t forget to include accommodations for loved ones with special needs and necessary actions for cherished pets in your plan, as well,” she said.

Seven fire safety tips from the Window Safety Task Force

1. Create a fire escape plan that includes two exits from every room in your home, through a door and a window.
2. Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at night, as many home fires occur at night.
3. Practice opening and closing windows that may be designated as emergency exits.
4. Attempt to open a window first, rather than break the glass, if you must exit through it in an emergency.
5. Open the window to escape or choose another exit route if your home features windows with impact-resistant glass, commonly used in hurricane-prone areas.
6. Check local building codes when remodeling your home to understand emergency escape and rescue (egress) building code requirements. Egress windows are designated by code as large enough for you to escape through or for rescue workers to enter in emergency situations.
7. Consult your local building codes to determine proper placement of window guards or fall prevention devices. If you equip windows in your home with these to prevent accidental falls, install devices that comply with ASTM F2090 for quick release.

Visit the window safety sections of the FGIA and the Window & Door Manufacturers Association websites to learn more. Follow the Window Safety Task Force on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for more tips and updates on this important safety issue.

About the Window Safety Task Force

The Window Safety Task Force was formed in 1997 to promote greater awareness of window safety. The task force is comprised of members representing the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) and the Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA), in cooperation with the National Safety Council (NSC) and other organizations, as well as manufacturers of windows, doors and screens. Window Safety Week, recognized the first full week of April, is intended to heighten awareness about what actions homeowners can take to establish window safety as a year-round priority.