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 designed for quick, tool-free removal without special knowledge or excessive force, window well covers may delay or prevent escape during an emergency. To reduce this risk, occupants must:

• 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.
• 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.

BEST PRACTICE:  Familiarity with the location and function of the cover enhances safety and peace of mind. We recommend occasionally reviewing or practicing emergency removal to ensure all occupants are confident using the cover if needed. 

WARNING: RISK OF INJURY FROM SHARP EDGES

This product may contain exposed metal edges that can cause lacerations or puncture wounds.
– Use gloves and caution when handling, installing, or removing.
– Do not allow children to handle or play with the product before or after installation.

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

Although designed to withstand certain static loads (e.g., occasional contact from a person or pet), risk of injury from these activities cannot be eliminated completely and the window well covers are not certified or intended for regular pedestrian or recreational use.

• 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.
• Flex in the material may cause footing to be unstable.
• Covers that are cracked, discolored, or warped can indicate that the plastic has aged out, may fail under pressure, and must be replaced immediately.

Avoid the activities described above whenever possible and do not allow children or pets to play on or near covers. The owner is responsible for regular inspections and replacement of damaged or UV-degraded covers. Covers exposed to sun and weather should be inspected at least annually for safety.

WARNING: OPTIONAL LOCKING SYSTEM – BALANCING SECURITY AND EGRESS SAFETY

The optional locking system is designed to:

• Prevent covers from being dislodged in high wind, snow, or extreme weather.
• Deter unauthorized removal or tampering.

However, using the locking system may delay emergency escape. Before engaging the locking pins, consider:

• Whether all occupants—including children and guests—can possess the ability to access the window well 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™ window well cover and/or its optional locking system, the homeowner acknowledges and assumes all risks associated with restricted egress and is responsible for ensuring all occupants—including guests—are familiar with how to remove the cover in an emergency. This product may not be suitable for all basement bedrooms or habitable spaces. Persons who are not able-bodied, as defined above, or who are not accompanied by someone able-bodied, should not occupy any room where the covered window serves as the designated emergency exit.

By using this product, you assume all risk and responsibility for your specific window wells and agree to comply with applicable building codes. You further release, indemnify, and hold harmless Windows Well Covered (legal name: Colorado Window Well Supply LLC) from any and all damages, liabilities, or injuries arising from use or misuse.