How Can a Fire & Emergency Escape Screen Save Your Life?

May 22nd, 2026

Key Takeaway

• Fire & Emergency Escape Screens give a quick, keyless exit while maintaining full security from the outside
• Necessary if any of your windows have fixed security screens or grilles and no other accessible escape route remains
• Available in hinged or sliding styles, depending on your window configuration
• Opens with a simple lever pull, no key required in an emergency
• Practice your fire escape plan regularly so everyone in the home knows how to use it

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In this article, we provide suggestions on finding the right balance between home security and home safety. While deadlocks and security screens will keep you, your loved ones, and your home safe from intruders, it’s essential to make sure that these home security measures do not prevent you from escaping in an emergency.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, thermal injuries, including smoke, fire and flame exposure, resulted in 137 deaths and 5,559 hospitalisations across Australia in the most recent reporting period. While many house fires are preventable, they remain a genuine and ongoing risk in Australian homes.

Here’s how to keep your family and your home safe

1. Follow home safety guidelines and tips to prevent your home from catching on fire

Each state Fire Department has resources to help you understand the most common causes of house fires and how to prevent them. Visit your state Fire Department website for guidance. 

2. Prepare and practice a fire plan for a quick escape in the event of an emergency

Each state Fire Department has lots of information to guide you through preparing a fire plan.

We’re all about security screens here at CommandeX. You can never have too many! But…that doesn’t mean locking yourself in with a house full of fixed window screens. Our Fire & Emergency Escape Screen is designed for a quick escape, giving you an additional exit point in case access to your door/s is restricted. Make sure everyone in the home is aware of the plan and knows how what to do in an emergency. While an escape screen is easy to use, it is only beneficial when the ‘responsible people’ know where it is and how to use it.

When do I need a Fire and Emergency Escape Screen?

A Fire & Emergency Escape Screen is necessary if you have, or are considering, window security screens or grilles.

Do you have or are you thinking of installing window security screens or window grilles?

No –If your windows are open or unrestricted, you can already escape through them in an emergency, an escape screen isn’t required.

Yes – If you have fixed security screens or window grilles on multiple windows, it’s important that not all of them are fixed. At least one accessible escape route should remain in case of emergency. If that’s your situation, installing at least one escape screen in a suitable room could save your life.

How does a Fire & Emergency Escape Screen work?

Fire & Emergency Escape Screens allow for a quick and keyless escape. They provide both fire safety from the inside and home security from the outside. 

To open the escape screen, you simply pull the lever and open the screen as demonstrated in the video below.

There are two styles of emergency escape screens – hinged or sliding. Your window style will determine which type you should have depending on the style of window they are being mounted on.

Be fire ready

Make sure you prepare and practice a fire evacuation plan. Refer to your State’s Fire Department for resources.

Once you finalise your fire plan and/or install a Fire & Emergency Escape Security Screen, ensure you discuss your escape plan with your family and practice using your escape route.