Windows As Emergency Exits
Page 37
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WHILST apparently possessing no in superable disadvantages, a scheme for the arrangement and design of coach and bus windows, which appears to possess big attractions, has been evolved by Mr. C. B. Evans, 22, Rozel Road, Clapham Common, London, S.W,4, who, we understand, desires to make contact with any person or concern interested in the development of his invention.
Briefly, the idea is to mount the windows in frames, those in the centre being out-built with regard to those at the ends, and the latter being slidabie, so that they can be moved along (on roller gear) to lie beside the centre frames. in this way large apertures, through which passengers could escape in an emergency, are readily available.
Moreover, the arrangement need interfere neither with the ventilation system normally employed, nor with the provision of safety bars.
In the event of the ordinary door becoming blocked, and of panic among
the passengers, the usual emergency exit would prove inadequate. Under normal conditions it takes a long time for all passengers to leave a bus—
especially double-deckers. Under the influence of excitement matters would be infinitely worse. Furthermore, with the emergency exit in the upper saloon the release of the passengers is still more difficult.
An occasion might arise in which a bus or coach were run into from be hind. This would result possibly in both ways of escape being put out of action. There are also the possibilities of the 'vehicle overturning on to its near side, or through skidding, or some other cause coming to rest with its main exit hard against, perhaps, a high brick wall, • A means for escape may, of course, be gained by breaking the glass windows, but jagged edges are not pleasant things to negotiate. How much better to be able to slide the windows clear, whether they be broken or not.