Service and Procedures

We always remind you when annual service is due and issue completion certificates. Should photographs be required to show repairs we will supply them at no additional cost.

1.) We inspect all parts of the Fire Escape from the roof to lowest landing, noting any hazards or violations.

2.) We release the lock and allow the Fire Escape to go down. Most do not go down fully since they have not been serviced in years and tend to freeze up. Cables get rusted and brittle and can break at any time. Cables should be replaced every 10-15 years, depending on location and weather.

3.) Fire Escapes that are serviced yearly work easily. We use a lubricant to free up frozen or bound Fire Escapes. Once they are working properly, we use a lubricant with silicone.

4.) There are three types of cable; galvanized, stainless, and plastic covered. We use galvanized 1/4 inch cable and clamps. They can hold up to 7,500 pounds. 98% of the Fire Escapes in San Francisco use galvanized cables.

With yearly service a Fire Escape can last 20-30 years and possibly save lives. Without proper service they won't work, causing a dangerous situation. For insurance purposes, all fire escapes should be serviced every year, as suggested by the manufacturers.