If you’re a high-rise apartment dweller, you know that your balcony is a valuable asset. It’s the perfect spot to relax in the sun, entertain guests, or enjoy a romantic evening under the stars. But that balcony can also be a safety hazard. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make your high-rise balcony safe and secure. Here are a few tips to make sure your balcony is safe and enjoyable.
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Are High-Rise Balconies Safe?
Most balconies are safe if they’re properly constructed and maintained. However, there have been some high-profile accidents in which people have fallen from balconies. In most cases, these accidents were due to faulty construction or maintenance. Property managers of all apartment buildings need to make sure that the balcony is up to code, so if you have concerns about the state of your balcony, report it to your landlord.
Balcony Safety For You And Your Guests
Having a balcony can be a great addition to any apartment. It provides fresh air and extra space and can be a great place to relax or entertain guests. However, balconies can also pose safety hazards, especially if they’re located on high floors. Here are some general tips to ensure or improve balcony safety:
Ensure You Have A Clear View Of The Balcony
Make sure there is nothing blocking the view of the balcony from the inside of your apartment because if someone needs your help, you want to be able to see them. This will also allow you to spot any potential hazards that might arise.
Don’t Overload Your Balcony
Don’t crowd your balcony space with too many people, too much furniture or other heavy items. This can put unnecessary strain on the structure and increase the risk of collapse.
Keep Furniture Away From The Edge
Furniture on the balcony should be away from the edge and secured so it can’t tip over and cause accidental falls.
It’s tempting to put a chair or table right up against the edge of the balcony, but it’s not safe. This is because it’s a temptation for both little and big people to climb on to get a better view. And this increases the chances of falling over the edge.
Don’t Lean On The Railing
Balcony railings are not designed to support your weight, so leaning on them can cause them to break or collapse. If you’re leaning on the railing, you could fall and seriously injure yourself.
Don’t Allow Anyone To Lean Over The Edge
Leaning over the edge of a balcony can be dangerous, even if there’s a handrail. If you’re looking for a better view, step back from the edge and enjoy the scenery from a safe distance.
Personal Safety
• Be mindful of what you are wearing while on the balcony. Heels or other slippery shoes can cause accidents, as can loose clothing that could get caught on the railing.
• You and your guests should wear shoes with good traction when on the balcony.
• Ensure that no tipsy guests are left unattended on the balcony.
• Make sure everyone knows not to lean on the railing.
• If possible, avoid spending time alone on the balcony. Having someone with you can help reduce the risk of accidents or attacks.
Inspect The Balcony Regularly
High-rise balcony safety includes regularly inspecting your balcony regularly to make sure that it’s in good condition.
- Check for cracks or loose bolts.
- Check the condition of your balcony flooring and make sure there’s no damage or loose tiles. Also, make sure the floor is clean and free of debris, tripping hazards, and slippery spots.
- Carefully make sure the railing is secure.
If you see any damage or something that looks unsafe, don’t hesitate to report it to the proper authorities.
Balcony Safety For Your Children
If you have small children, you’ll already know that it’s important to take some precautions to make sure you have a childproof balcony. Here are some tips to help you keep your balcony safe for everyone:
- Make sure that there are no gaps in the railings that a child could potentially climb or fall through.
- Keep any furniture or other items that could be climbed on away from the edge of the balcony.
- Never leave small children unattended on the balcony, even for a minute.
- If you have young children, consider installing mesh netting as a safety net around the perimeter of the balcony. A baby gate or door alarm are other balcony safety solutions for little kids.
Balcony Safety For Anyone Below Your Balcony
No one wants to think about their balcony collapsing and injuring people below. So, not only do you need to keep your family and guests safe, but you also need to make sure that anyone who is below your balcony is safe as well. Here are a few things you can do:
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
Make sure you are aware of your surroundings before stepping out onto any balcony of high rise buildings. Take who and what is below you into consideration.
Keep Objects Off The Balcony Railing
If there are any loose objects on your balcony railing, they could fall and hit someone below. Make sure all objects are securely fastened or stored away so they can’t fall off the edge.
Don’t Hang Anything Off The Balcony
Decorations, laundry, and other items should never be hung off the side of a balcony. Not only is it unsightly, but it’s also dangerous. Items could fall and injure someone below.
Don’t Drop Anything From The Balcony
No matter how tempted you are, never drop anything from your balcony. It may seem like harmless fun, but even a small object can cause serious injury if it hits someone below.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can make your apartment balcony a safe and enjoyable space. Don’t let potential hazards ruin your time spent outdoors – take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and others safe. Enjoy the sunny weather from the comfort and safety of your own balcony!
