The Instructions for How to Open a Basement Escape Window

Basement escape windows, also called egress windows, are for buildings with basement apartments or living spaces below street level. The windows are wide enough for a person of average size to get through and escape the building in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Basement escape windows swing outward and to the right on hinges like a door. The metal latch at the bottom opens swiftly so the window can swing out of the way for a fast exit.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Grab the latch at the bottom of the window where it locks with the window sill. The latch may be made of steel or brass.

   • 2

     Pull the latch outward toward you to unlock the window from the sill.

   • 3

     Push on the window frame, not the glass, to open the window. It will swing outward to open.