Fire Escape Ladders

!±8± Fire Escape Ladders

Joseph Winters invented the fire escape ladder in 1878. Designed for the Pennsylvania city of Chambersburg, this heavy ladder had to be hoisted with the help of a wagon. The initial ladders were employed by fire engines. As the number of floors in buildings gradually increased, metal ladders came to be attached outside the windows to facilitate easy escape during emergencies. Sometime later, portable type were introduced and these lightweight, escape ladders were installed in multi-storeyed buildings. Such ladders are now considered to be a must in every home, especially those that have small children.

Types Fire Escape Ladders for Children

Perhaps it is the concept of self-rescue that has driven parents to install fire escape ladders in homes. Despite the sense of security that comes from having this device at home, parents must be careful in selecting the right kind, for their children. The type makes a tremendous difference on a child's ability to climb down. There are essentially two types:

Portable chain ladder: This kind includes a built-in standoff for every rounded rung. The ladder tends to transfer the climber's weight to the wall from every step. The round shape of the steps is convenient for having a firm grasp and this variety of ladder is easier for children to use under adult supervision. This particular type utilize aluminum rungs because this metal in light, strong and easy to manufacture. They have a tendency of bouncing as the user's weight shifts from one rung to the other.

Permanent fixed rail ladder: These types are safest and easiest to use. The obvious drawback is a ladder mounted permanently in the wall of one's home. Since this feature cannot be easily disguised, the issue of showing a path to intruders becomes a concern.

There are collapsible ladders too, that can be added to the framework without much visual impact. If aesthetics is not a concern, theses ladders are the best.

Fire Escape Ladders Available Online

The three finest quality fire escape ladders found online are:

First Alert® ladders: Facilitating tangle-free deployment, these ladders are made of nylon and steel. They have slip-resistant, epoxy-coated steps that offer extra strength and durability.

Kidde® ladders: Using a tangle-free design, these ladders come in a ready-to-use package so that no tools are required for assembling it. Anti-slip rungs and durable construction allow worry-free escape.

Pearl® Permanent ladders: 23' 8" in length, the slip-resistant steps of this ladder can be painted or wall-papered to complement one's home decor.