Opening Windows by Firefighters: Learn methods for unlocking crescent locks and safe glass breaking during emergencies

When an emergency call is received, such as “I feel unwell at home” or “I fell down the stairs and cannot move,” and the emergency team arrives to find all entrances locked, they may need to break in to reach the person in need. Here, we will explain the methods for opening windows in such situations.

Unlocking the Lock

The first priority is to unlock the window.

Most windows use a type of lock called a crescent lock.

Crescent Lock

This lock can be unlocked by moving the window up and down, which causes vibrations that can release the lock.

How to Unlock
From the outside, move the right window up and down vigorously. If moving it by hand is difficult, using a suction cup can make it easier.

Notes:

• If the crescent lock has an additional lock, it cannot be opened from either inside or outside if it is engaged.
• In newer houses, the space between the window and the frame is often too narrow to move the window, making this method ineffective.

Breaking the Window

As mentioned earlier, unlocking is usually only possible with older windows, so breaking the glass is often necessary at the scene.

Using a glass cutter to break the window glass can make the break cleaner and reduce the amount of shattered glass.

How to Break the Window
From the outside, use a glass cutter to make a semicircular cut near the crescent lock on the right window. Then, tap the cut area with a crowbar or similar tool to neatly remove the glass.

Notes:

• Before tapping, apply tape to the glass to prevent it from shattering and scattering.

Reference page: Learn firefighter door entry techniques, from Halligan tools to power tools, for safe, fast access through inward and outward-opening doors during emergencies.

References　National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

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