Editor,

Let's look at some considerations. Single-exit stairway buildings are the norm in Europe and many places around the world and have been around since 1977 in Seattle, up to nine storeys in some places, although I'm not advocating for that height.

In B.C. we don't need to experiment or reinvent the wheel; it's been done for decades elsewhere. The Seattle fire department says: "Seattle Fire Department does not have any concerns with this provision in our Building Code." Do you not think they would have abandoned this concept years ago if they discovered safety problems with it?

And B.C.'s proposal has more stringent requirements, including sprinklers, wider stairways, thicker drywall and less flammable materials. A six-storey limit with only four units/floor. This means a very short distance from your unit to the stairwell, whereas some two-stairway buildings have long hallways that residents will need to negotiate while possibly being charged with smoke. The single exit stairway design makes for more windows, as each unit has two exterior walls, whereas two-stairway designs have only one exterior wall. This design allows for three- and four-bedroom units.

Two exterior walls allows for cross-ventilation. Remember the heat dome that killed 600 people in B.C.?

More windows means more natural light, which improves your mood and is good for your mental health.

The single stairway design allows for larger units, and the buildings can be built on small lots that could not accommodate the two-stairway design. This means more affordability for the less advantaged, as a family being homeless is more of a safety concern than a single stairway.

Also, rope ladders can be purchased and used as a backup. Fire department can place ladders to windows or balconies, and shelter in place is also an option in both single and double stairway buildings.

I'm a retired firefighter of 30 years. I would not hesitate to move into a single stairway building.

John Benes