Keep stairwell exit doors closed for safety
 Exit stairwell doors should never be propped open.
Some apartment residents and staff members may want to prop open stairwell exit doors when the weather warms to improve air circulation. However, It is very important to make sure these doors remain closed and are not held open with wedges or other devices. Not only is keeping stairwell exit doors open a violation of Seattle Fire Code, it also can endanger evacuating residents in the event of a fire emergency.
During a fire, a closed door will prevent smoke from entering a stairwell and reduce the spread of smoke and toxic gases. Stairwells are used for primary evacuation and stairwell doors are designed to keep smoke out.
Wedged open stairwell exit doors are one of several items firefighters look for during annual inspections. Learn more about fire safety building inspections (non-high rise).
|
