tuletoranud

Tuletoranud is a term of Estonian origin that translates to "fire escape" or "fire ladder." It refers to a safety device designed to provide a means of egress from a building in the event of a fire. Historically, these devices were often made of metal and were permanently attached to the exterior of buildings. They typically consisted of a series of rungs or a ladder-like structure that allowed individuals to descend from upper floors to the ground.

In modern contexts, the term can also encompass more contemporary fire escape systems, such as internal fire stairs or emergency evacuation chutes. The primary function of any tuletoranud is to offer an alternative exit route when primary exits, like stairwells, are blocked by fire or smoke. Regulations regarding the installation and maintenance of fire escapes vary by region and building codes. Their presence is a critical component of fire safety planning in many structures, particularly older buildings that may not have been built with modern evacuation strategies in mind. The concept underscores the importance of having multiple, accessible escape routes in case of emergencies.