Are fire escapes still used in buildings?

Yes, fire escapes are still present in many buildings—but you might be surprised to learn how their use, purpose, and design have changed. Let's break down the facts, what you need to look out for whether you live or work in a high-rise today, and what modern fire safety really means for you.

The Truth About Modern Fire Escapes

If you live in or regularly visit an older city neighborhood, you’ve likely noticed those iconic zig-zagging outdoor staircases clinging to apartment buildings. They’re relics of a time when fire codes were radically different—and fires, frankly, far more common and deadly. But here’s the catch: most new residential and commercial buildings don’t install these classic fire escapes anymore. Instead, you’re more likely to find high-tech features like internal stairwells, pressurized safety corridors, and automated sprinklers, all quietly working to keep you out of harm’s way.

Why the change? Well, it comes down to a mix of safety, code evolution, and technology. Let’s dive deeper.

Why Did Classic Fire Escapes Fall Out of Favor?

Gone are the days when exterior metal stairs were considered the ultimate lifesaver. Starting in the late 1960s, updated building codes in places like New York City began phasing out external fire escapes on new construction. The reasoning was stark: those old fire escapes, while dramatic-looking, were prone to rust, difficult to maintain, and in some cases, downright dangerous in a real emergency.

Some of the top reasons for the shift include:

• Corrosion: Outdoor metal fire escapes could become unsafe after years of exposure, especially in cities near the sea.

• Blockage: Residents sometimes blocked exits with items like air conditioners or personal stuff, making them useless in an emergency.

• Better options: Advances in fireproof materials, alarm systems, and internal egress routes provided safer ways to evacuate.

So, What Do Modern Buildings Use?

If you tour a newly constructed office, apartment, or high-rise, here’s what you’ll usually find instead of the old school fire escape:

• Enclosed, fire-rated stairwells: These staircases are protected from smoke and flames and often provide direct egress routes to the exterior.

• Automatic sprinkler systems: Quickly douse flames before they can block paths or overtake entire floors.

• Emergency lighting and wayfinding: Includes glow-in-the-dark floor strips and visual signage.

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  Next: What Is the Safest Way to Escape a High-Rise Fire?