I'm wondering about the legality and safety of permanently locking egress points in a home, like doors or garage doors, to the point where they can't be opened easily. My sibling is doing this to our elderly parents' home, even though my parents seem to somewhat agree. They believe it's for their safety due to perceived threats from the outside world. Is this allowed, and what are the potential repercussions or alternatives to ensure their safety?
3 Answers
It's concerning that your parents are locked in this way. Usually, if an egress point, like a door, is permanently blocked or bolted shut, it doesn't really serve its purpose as a safety exit, especially in case of emergencies like fires. Generally, there aren't any authorities who will enforce these things in an owner-occupied home unless it's a significant safety issue. It’s probably best to consult your local fire marshals or code enforcement, as they can provide info on local safety codes and make sure everyone is safe.
From a safety perspective, you can't just seal off egress points. In many places, there are codes requiring egresses to remain accessible. Even if your parents consent to this, it doesn't make it safe or legal. If they’re struggling with anxiety or paranoia, it might be worth involving adult protective services. This is a serious situation that could have dangerous outcomes.
Wow, this situation sounds really alarming! It seems more like a mental health issue than just a home safety question. If your parents are genuinely afraid of the outside world, it’s crucial to address those fears more effectively than just locking them in. Maybe look into options like installing better locking mechanisms that still allow easy exit. This can help them feel secure without compromising their safety.