
I honestly thought such things had been banned, but had to do some quick research and dropped the following note to the TV station (http://www.fox61.com/about/station/feedback/news.html)
Greetings.
On tonight's Fox61 News (6/8/2001) there was a good segment on protecting yourself from burglaries.
However, this segment contained one well meaning but potentially dangerous suggestion.
The Police Officer interviewed showed and recommended the use of a "double key" style deadbolt lock.
This is the style of deadbolt where a key is needed to open it both from the outside -- and from the inside.
The use of this style of deadbolt is severely restricted under the Connecticut State Building Code due to serious fire-safety concerns, and it is restricted or banned by most other building codes as well.
The *only* style of double-key (also known as double cylinder) deadbolt allowed is one that captures the key when locked from the inside -- you can not remove the key when it is locked. Without this feature, a person who is disoriented and blinded by smoke can become trapped behind their own door when they can not find the key to unlock it.
Unfortunately, many deadbolts are still sold which do not meet this requirement. Someone purchasing a non-compliant deadbolt without knowledge of the building code and the reason behind it are putting themselves at grave risk of being trapped in the event of a fire.
Perhaps a follow-up segment on the dangers of old-fashion double-key deadbolts would be appropriate.
Thank You,
Matt Kivela
Fire Service Instructor/EMT, Mortlake Fire Co., Brooklyn, CT
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