Fire escape window gate operation

I can’t figure out how to open the window gate that exits to my fire escape. I don’t know if it’s just me or if it’s rusted shut. See the attached picture for reference. I’m able to sort of reach my hand up inside the bottom of the box and there’s some kind of spring loaded handle that moves back and forth but I can’t get the gate to unlock. What am I doing wrong? It’s obviously making me a bit nervous that I won’t be able to escape in a fire. Or if you can point me in a direction that is helpful. Google has not been. Thanks!

photochic1124

in Fire 10 years and 3 months ago

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tm07 | 10 years and 3 months ago

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The standard fire gate has a cover over the box that lifts up from the inside. You then squeeze a pin and pull open the gate. They are designed to be opened with one hand so that a child or elderly or disabled person can open them. I had to install a new one up to code in my coop when I bought it. I agree with 364house. Report the problem and follow up on it. The box part should be fixed or the gate replaced.

MDR | 10 years and 3 months ago

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The handle inside the box should operate some sort of latch or pin that slides into the window frame. The metal box makes it difficult to reach but it’s there to prevent someone from unlatching it from the outside. If it is broken or you cant get it to work you could call a locksmith. These types of gates used to be common but as neighborhoods have gotten safer and other security systems have improved they are not used much anymore – you may want to consider removing it.

364house | 10 years and 3 months ago

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All fire escape gates must be of a type approved by the Fire Dept of NYC and shall have an “MEA” number tag attached to the gate. Immediately notify your Landlord of this condition and if no action taken refer condition to HPD. The majority of FDNY approved fire escape gates within NYC is manufactured by Kaufman Gates.