Co-op Handbook
Fire Escapes and Window Gates
Obstructing fire escapes is against the law; they must be kept absolutely clear. No radio or TV wires or antennas, plants, storage containers, or anything else may be kept on fire escapes.
For security, residents are allowed to install window gates on windows that lead to a fire escape. However, only gates approved by the Fire Department are permitted on these windows. No padlocks may be used. Some gates have self-releasing locks that are approved. For more information and to get the names of approved gate manufacturers, contact the superintendent or the fire department. Gates may be installed only with the superintendent’s guidance.
Reader Comments
Posted by pat naticchione, 25 Jun 2003 at 7:54 PM: I am looking for flexible fire shutters that are installed over the top of the window. I understand that the heat from fire relases the shutter for protection from the window, when exiting a fire escape. Where can you buy these?
Posted by Webmaster, 25 Jun 2003 at 10:28 PM: 
I think your best bet is to contact your local fire department and ask them, since they’re the experts. You might also go to one of those huge hardware stores like Home Depot, for example. They should might know what you’re talking about, and perhaps carry it.
Posted by joann, 10 Jul 2003 at 12:54 PM: 
I am looling for a window gate that can extend enough so I am able to put an a/c in the window.
thank you
Posted by Webmaster, 10 Jul 2003 at 10:16 PM: I think your best bet is to contact your local fire department and ask them, since they’re the experts. You might also go to one of those huge hardware stores like Home Depot, for example. Make sure that any window gates you install are approved by the fire department — you can’t just install any bars, because if they’re not the right kind, you could end up barbecued in the event of a fire.
Posted by Arthur De Pasquale, 10 Sep 2003 at 10:46 PM: I am a N.Y.C. Licensed Locksmith and need approved ‘burgler gates’ for a fire escape window. This is for a rental apartment. Thanks, Artie
Posted by Arthur De Pasquale, 10 Sep 2003 at 10:46 PM: I am a N.Y.C. Licensed Locksmith and need approved ‘burgler gates’ for a fire escape window. This is for a rental apartment. Thanks, Artie
Posted by Jennifer, 6 Apr 2004 at 3:33 AM: I need two fire escape window gates in a rental in Hamilton Heights. Help!
Posted by Webmaster, 9 Apr 2004 at 11:58 AM: As suggested in the main handbook entry above, get in touch with your superintendent and/or local fire department to recommend fire-department-approved gates and where to purchase them, then go purchase them and have them installed.
Posted by Hyunho, 10 Apr 2004 at 5:58 PM: > Please let me know what is a fire department apporoved “FERRY GAT”? What it looks like? I’m a translator of A/A center at Queens college. These wired words are found in police leaflets to be translated - “Basement windows should be protected by using a fire dept. approved ferry gate…” Please let me konw what it is.
Posted by Hyunho, 10 Apr 2004 at 6:04 PM: Sorry misspelled! It is “FERRY GATE”! I saked the Fire Department in Flushing. But nobody knows there what it is or what it looks like! PLease let me know immediately if you have any idea about it!
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