Ice Removal from Fire Escapes: Proper Procedure
Building owners and property managers in New Jersey and other regions prone to snow and ice accumulation are no strangers to snowstorms and freezing temperatures. However, with picturesque winter scenes comes a serious responsibility—keeping fire escape routes clear of ice and snow. Fire escapes serve as critical routes during emergencies, so neglecting their upkeep is a safety hazard and a potential legal liability. Explore the proper procedure for removing ice from fire escapes if you’re managing properties in snowy climates.
Steer Clear of Scraping Ice
The temptation to grab a shovel or metal tool to scrape ice off fire escapes is understandable. After all, ice makes the stairs slippery and hazardous for residents and tenants. However, this approach often does more harm than good.
Fire escapes typically consist of steel or iron, painted to protect the metal from corrosion. Scraping ice with metal tools or hard objects can chip away this protective paint and lead to the following consequences:
Snow, ice, and moisture seeping into the exposed areas and accelerating rust formation.
Rust weakening the structure over time, making the fire escape more prone to costly repairs.
Damaging the integrity of nuts, bolts, and welds that hold the fire escape together.
Over time, such harm to the structure can evolve into major problems that compromise the fire escape’s ability to function during an emergency.
Avoid Applying Salt
Salt is a popular method for melting ice on sidewalks and driveways, but it is not appropriate for fire escapes. The main issue is that salt and steel don’t mix well. Salt promotes corrosion when it encounters metal, creating an environment where the steel is more likely to oxidize. Just as with scraping, this corrosion can lead to rust, weakening the fire escape’s structural stability.
Protect the Paint Coatings
Beyond the issue of rust, using salt can also damage the paint on a fire escape in the same way that scraping does. Salt residue can seep into even the smallest imperfections in the paint coating, stripping it away over time. Repairing or repainting these damages can be costly and time-consuming and further decrease the safety of an already compromised structure during the winter months.
Patience Is Key
Don’t ruin your fire escape by trying remedies that work for roads. Properly care for your fire escape by turning to the professionals who know the ins and outs of these structures, like the certified welders and engineers at Maximum Fire Escapes. Our team members have years of experience in using high-quality materials and specialized tools and techniques for safe and correct <strong>fire escape fabrication</strong>, installation, maintenance, repair, and more.
Our expert recommendation is to simply be patient and wait for temperatures to warm. The ice and snow will begin to melt without your intervention when temperatures rise above freezing. Patiently waiting for nature to run its course ensures that the paint and structural integrity of the fire escape remain intact, as natural melting doesn’t involve harmful chemicals, abrasive tools, or undue stress on the structure.
Preparing Your Fire Escape for Winter
While you should avoid trying to remove the ice yourself during the winter, proactive maintenance can minimize any potential damage caused by an ice buildup. Here are some steps you can take to prepare your fire escape for weathering the winter months in New Jersey and other areas that experience freezing conditions.
Inspect for Damage
Have your fire escapes professionally inspected for chipped paint, rust spots, or structural damage before winter sets in. Maximum Fire Escapes conducts detailed inspections that can uncover any issues that untrained eyes might miss. We also complete thorough repairs that will guarantee your fire escape is in top condition before facing harsh weather conditions. For example, we can apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint or sealant to protect the fire escape from moisture, extending its lifespan and reducing the risk of rust.
Clear Debris Regularly
Leaves and other debris can accumulate on fire escapes during fall months, creating an environment where ice and snow may be more likely to collect when winter begins. Make a habit of clearing these items from the fire escape before winter arrives, especially since you should always keep fire escapes clear of debris year-round, per fire prevention codes.
Encourage Responsible Use
Educate residents about how to use fire escapes safely in winter conditions. While this is their primary escape route in emergencies, tenants often misuse fire escapes as balconies throughout the year, leading to unnecessary wear and tear.
Emergency Scenarios
Of course, emergencies don’t wait for warm weather. Should a fire or other situation arise while ice still covers the fire escape, you must prioritize your and your tenants’, employees’, and guests’ personal safety while exiting the building. Encourage individuals on your property to be as safe as possible, especially during emergencies, by doing the following:
Advise individuals to proceed slowly and carefully, using both hands to hold onto the railings for balance.
Emphasize that cautious behavior can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls, even if some tenants must exit unassisted.
Especially in multi-unit buildings, consider installing pro-safety signage on fire escapes or in communal areas as reminders to residents.
Focus on actionable tips tenants can follow during an emergency, such as wearing sturdy shoes with good traction when using the fire escape.
Enlist Professional Maintenance After the Ice Melts
Don’t postpone addressing damage if you notice that your fire escape sustained some from ice, snow, or improper maintenance. Reach out to our team at Maximum Fire Escapes; our licensed professionals can identify the problem and expertly apply the appropriate resolution.
A Long-Term Mindset
Adopting a long-term mindset is essential when managing fire escapes during winter months. While keeping fire escapes clear of ice may seem like a pressing concern, rushing to scrape or salt the surface could ultimately shorten the structure’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs. You can ensure your fire escapes remain safe, functional, and compliant with local safety regulations for years to come by investing in fire escape fabrication, proactive maintenance, and emphasizing patience during winter weather.
Within a few warmer days, ice and snow will begin to melt naturally, leaving your fire escape clear and intact. Trust this process and resist the impulse to intervene with tools or chemicals that may do more harm than good. By following these proper procedures for ice removal from fire escapes and tips for post-ice care, you can manage your property and protect your tenants in the harshest winters.
