Product Warnings

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION – READ BEFORE USE OF WINDOW WELL COVERS

Failure to follow these warnings and instructions could result in serious injury or death.

WARNING: RISK OF ENTRAPMENT DURING EMERGENCY ESCAPE

Although the cover is designed to allow quick, tool-free removal without special knowledge or excessive force, it has NOT been tested or certified by any code authority for compliance with fire or emergency egress standards. It is the sole responsibility of the homeowner to ensure code compliance and to inform all occupants about existing window well covers and the emergency release mechanism. Local code requirements and interpretations may vary, and escape may still be delayed or obstructed in an emergency.

• Ensure that all emergency egress windows are accessible and operable from inside and that the window well cover can be removed and is not impeded on the outside by anything by anything including but not limited to snow, landscaping, debris, or other obstructions.
• Never place any object or obstruction on top of an egress window well cover.
• Ensure that any person sleeping in or using a basement room with a covered egress window is:
• Familiar with the location and function of the cover;
• Able-bodied to exit through the egress window and enter the window well; OR 
• Accompanied by someone who is able bodied to access the window well 

Definition of “Able-Bodied”:
For the purposes of this warning, “able-bodied” refers solely to the physical ability to open and climb through the egress window into the well, using no more force than what is required to operate the window itself, and without tools or special knowledge. This includes sufficient height and strength to enter the well, which is comparable to the effort required to remove the window well cover or climb an egress ladder.

• If you choose to use the window well cover’s optional locking system, ensure all occupants are familiar with the location and function of the quick-release locks and can quickly remove them without tools. Locks are designed for easy, intuitive, tool-free release from inside the well without special knowledge or excessive effort.
• Regularly inspect and test (at least annually) the window well cover and locking mechanism to ensure they are in good working order and perform any needed maintenance or cleaning.
• Follow all local building codes for basement and basement bedroom emergency exits.

Attention: Product Handling
All covers are finished with sanded and deburred edges for a smooth, professional appearance. While uncommon, minor edge roughness or sharpness may still occur.

• Use care when handling, installing, or removing the cover.

BEST PRACTICE: Practicing emergency exits is a universal safety practice that promotes preparedness and peace of mind. We recommend practicing your emergency exit through all covered egress window wells to ensure all occupants are confident and familiar in the event of an emergency.

WARNING:  DO NOT WALK OR STAND ON COVER – RISK OF SLIPPING, FALLING, OR COLLAPSE

While our covers are engineered for durability in Colorado weather (e.g., snow, wind, hail) and designed to help reduce fall risk from incidental contact (e.g., from a person or pet), they have NOT been tested or certified by any code authority for load-bearing capacity or use as a walking surface. They should not be used to support the full weight of a person. Walking, standing, or placing uneven weight on the cover may result in slipping, dislodgement, sudden collapse, or serious injury.

• Covers may come loose, dislodge, or slide if subjected to uneven weight or repeated movement.
• Covers are extremely slippery when wet, icy, or snow-covered, and flex in the material may cause footing to be unstable.
• Never allow children or pets to play on or near the covers.
• Inspect regularly for signs of UV damage, warping, or cracking. Covers exposed to sun and weather should be checked annually and replaced if aged or damaged.
• The homeowner is responsible for safe use and ongoing inspection of the cover.

WARNING: OPTIONAL LOCKING SYSTEM – BALANCING SECURITY AND EGRESS SAFETY

The optional locking system is designed to: 

• Help keep the cover in place during windy conditions 
• Deter tampering and thieves.

However, using the locking system may delay emergency escape. Consider before use:

• Whether all occupants—including children and guests—possess the ability to access the window well and cover without assistance, tools, keys, or special knowledge.
• Whether the room is regularly occupied by someone who may be physically unable to exit.
• That emergency responders may not be able to remove the cover from the outside.

IMPORTANT: The locking system should not be used on any window well serving as an emergency egress unless it remains fully and easily removable from inside, without tools, keys, or special knowledge.

WARNING: IMPROPER CLEANING MAY DAMAGE PRODUCT AND REDUCE SAFETY

• Cleaning is not necessary, but if desired thoroughly rinse all visible dirt from your cover with a hose to prevent scratching. Do NOT wipe dirt from the cover to avoid scratching. 
• Do NOT apply any chemical-based cleaning agents particularly ammonia to avoid chemical degradation of the plastic and UV treatment. This will significantly shorten the longevity and strength of the cover.
• Use only basic soft soap or diluted vinegar if needed to break down dirt. Use clean microfiber cloths and press gently to dry. 

NOTICE: ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY

By purchasing, installing, or using a Windows Well Covered™ product and/or its optional locking system, the homeowner acknowledges and assumes all risks described in the warnings above, including those related to restricted egress, non-certified load capacity, and general use. The homeowner is solely responsible for code compliance, safe usage, and ensuring all occupants are informed of emergency escape procedures.
Use of this product constitutes agreement to release, indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Windows Well Covered (Colorado Window Well Supply LLC) from any and all claims, damages, injuries, or liabilities resulting from use or misuse.