Top 5 Ways Building Codes Protect You and Your Family

When you enter a home or building, you expect the lights to work safely. You expect to have hot and cold running water. You expect a smoke detector to warn you of fire. Those are things many of us take for granted. That’s because building safety officials make it their job to ensure that you’re safe where you live, work and worship. While “first responders” answer your emergency calls, building safety officials are the unsung “first preventers” who make sure building safety codes are in place to save lives and protect property.

Here are five common ways building codes protect you and your family:

5. Scald protection
4. Electric shock protection
3. Emergency escape and rescue
2. Stair rails
1. Smoke detectors

For details on each of these items, visit buildingsafetyweek.org. Check your in-box for top summer safety tips on April 17.

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states choose the International Codes, building safety codes developed by the International Code Council.