Why can’t the doors to the stairwells be left open for better ventilation?

These doors protect the stairwell from the spread of smoke, heat and hot gases so that they can be used to safely evacuate people from the building.  A door, which is wedged open, would allow the smoke to fill the stairwell as well as the upper floors of the building, putting the occupants at risk.

Show All Answers

1. How high do the fire department ladders reach?
2. How long should emergency power last?
3. Why can’t I use the elevators during a fire alarm?
4. How often does the fire alarm system in the building get tested?
5. Is the fire alarm system connected directly to the fire stations?
6. "I saw pictures of that terrible fire in another community."
7. What are the usual causes of fire in a high-rise?
8. Why is the exit to the roof allowed to be locked?
9. If I am not physically capable of using the stairs, what should I do?
10. Why can’t the doors to the stairwells be left open for better ventilation?
11. Do you still have rescue window stickers to indicate a child’s bedroom?
12. How do I dispose of hazardous materials such as old paint cans, flammable liquids, etc?
13. How close should my drapes come to an electric baseboard heater?