Have you ever wondered if Fire escapes are such a safe route to get down or exit from your building in an emergency? Fire escapes are a classic part of NYC architecture, and it’s necessary to be installed in every residential and commercial property. There is also a safety concern about sitting on the fire escape. One should not sit on the fire escape as it is unsafe, illegal, and can obstruct the way in case of fire hazards or other emergencies. According to local law 11, the FDNY and DOB, your fire escape should always be maintained and clear with 24/7 functionality. If you go against the law, you’ll be heavily charged with fines and penalties, considering it a lease violation.
In this blog, we’ll thoroughly discuss the consequences and violations of sitting on the fire escape, myths vs. facts, and the legal use of the fire escape:
Reasons Why Sitting on a Fire Escape Is Prohibited
Here is the list of safety concerns & laws you should follow:
NYC Fire Safety Laws:
- Fire escape should be clear and accessible 24/7.
- FDNY states fire escapes are for emergency use only.
- Using a fire escape for anything else = violation.
- Any person can become a barrier to an escape route.
- Even if the occupant misuses the fire escape, the fines will only be imposed on the owner.
For more insight on why fire escapes became common across the city, you can read about why New York has so many fire escapes to understand the history behind these safety rules.
Essential safety concerns:
- Fire escapes are not designed for weight beyond emergency use.
- Metal structures may be old, rusted, or unstable.
- It gives a threat of slips, collapse, and fire escape failing under load.
- It can block other tenants from escaping during a fire.
- It can slow down firefighter access during emergencies.
If you want to see how cold weather affects metal structures, check this guide on how winter impacts fire escapes in NYC.
Lawful Vs. Unlawful Fire Escape Behaviors
Here are some of the legal and non-compliant uses of fire escape given below:
Legal purposes:
- Emergency escape
- Emergency descent
- Firefighter entry
- Brief access for maintenance (if landlord requested)
Forbidden activities:
- Sitting
- Standing to hang out
- Smoking
- Reading or relaxing
- Installing plants or lights
- Storing items
- Drying clothes
- Putting AC units
- Using chairs or small tables
- Decorating with seasonal items
Risks of Sitting on a Fire Escape
Violating the law by sitting on the fire escape can cost you hefty fines. The following violations can be imposed if you perform any illegal act:
| Legal repercussion | Overview |
|---|---|
| HPD Violation | Results in class A, B, or C violations. |
| DOB Violation | Results in heavy penalties. |
| FDNY Intervention | Results in a warning from Firefighters on the misuse. |
| Lease Issues | Results in a non-compliant fire escape with a violation of the lease rules. |
| Injury Liability | Results in considering you liable for your own accident. |
Common Hazards of Fire Escape
Make sure to keep your fire escape maintained according to the NYC FDNY to prevent common hazards of fire escape:
Stability Problems:
- Most of NYC’s fire escapes are 50–120 years old.
- Many have rust, corrosion, or loose bolts.
- Snow, ice, and rain make them slippery.
- Metal expands/contracts with heat and cold.
Fall-Related Danger:
- Low railing height.
- Narrow platforms.
- No reinforcement for seated weight.
- High winds can destabilize footing.
Rescue Obstruction Risk:
- People sitting outside can block firefighters from climbing up.
- Delays the evacuation flow.
- Increases danger to tenants on upper floors.
For guidance on safe winter upkeep, you may find the article on keeping a fire escape safe during NYC winters helpful.
Debunking Myths About Fire Escape Use
The following are the myths and the reality of sitting on the fire escape:
| Myths | Reality |
|---|---|
| Many people sit on the fire escape; it seems harmless. | It is illegal and potentially harmful. |
| I’m not restricting anyone’s way. | It can hinder the pathway. |
| It’s my property and I’m entitled to use it as I like. | It serves as a communal emergency exit route. |
| It looks sturdy, so it must be safe. | Most of the old fire escapes are heavily deteriorated. |
Strict Uses of Fire Escape
The legal conformity advises you to use your fire escape only in an emergency:
- Only to escape during a building fire.
- To move from floor to floor in an evacuation.
- Make sure firefighters have access.
- Rapid exit to the street.
- Make sure the fire escape rescue gear is reachable.
- Make sure it is accessible for emergency service operations.
Conclusion
To conclude this blog, it is strictly prohibited and against the law to sit on the fire escape, as your presence blocks the exit route, and FDNY officials tell you it stops functioning when needed most. So make sure to keep your fire escape unobstructed to avoid legal fines, code citations, and personal injury.
Sardar Restoration Corp proudly serves every corner of NYC, including the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Queens. Our services are designed to meet your specific needs, providing top-quality solutions wherever you are. Check our service areas to see how we can assist you in your location.
Contact us today at (+1) 917-355-8556 or sardarrestoration@gmail.com, or visit us at 2770 Fish Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States.
FAQs
Do you remove fire escape violations?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers expert violation removal services and handles all types of fire escape violations, including HPD, DOB, and FDNY notices, ensuring your fire escape will get compliant in a few days.
Can my landlord fine me for sitting on the fire escape?
Yes, your landlord can take action because sitting on a fire escape is considered a violation of NYC safety rules. Even if you did it, the official fines usually go to the property owner, and they may charge you for causing the violation.
Do you repair damaged or rusted fire escapes?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. repairs rust, corrosion, loose bolts, broken steps, weak platforms, missing railings, paint deterioration, and structure-related issues to make the fire escape safe and code-compliant.
Is it legal to store small items like plants or lights on a fire escape?
No, storing any items on a fire escape is not allowed. Even small objects like plants, lights, or decorations can block the path or fall during an emergency, which makes it unsafe and non compliant with NYC fire regulations.
Do you handle painting and rust-proofing for fire escapes?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. applies high-quality DOB-approved paints and rust-proof coatings on the fire escape to safeguard the metal framework from rust and corrosion, while ensuring it meets NYC safety standards.
Can I stand on the fire escape for fresh air if I am not blocking anyone?
Standing on a fire escape for fresh air is also not allowed. NYC fire codes require fire escapes to stay completely clear at all times, even when you think no one needs to use them. Any activity other than emergency use is considered a violation.
Do you serve both residential and commercial buildings?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers fire escape restoration, repair, installation, and maintenance services for residential and commercial properties in NYC.
