Reddit mentions: The best ladders

Sturdy step stool ($40) - not the rickety tubular kitchen chair ones, I mean one where you can stand on the top. a Buy it for Life item, not inexpensive, but safe. https://www.amazon.com/Louisville-Ladder-AS3002-6966014-2-Foot/dp/B00182TWL2

Leatherman multi tool (around $50), which i keep in the junk bowl because I can never find a screwdriver fast enough. Pricey new, less expensive when you buy it second hand or in a pawn shop. they don't really break, but you do have to clean and oil them once a year. https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-Wingman-Multitool-Stainless-Steel/dp/B005DI0XM4/

Cordless drill (under $50), mine basically has the screw driver bit in it 90% of the time. the rest of the time I drill lots of pilot holes. pay attention to the battery... if you can get one with a battery that is shared by other tools in the line, then it is easily replaceable and if you buy another tool in that line you can swap batteries. I like to have 1 battery in the charger and one in the device. https://www.amazon.com/BLACK-DECKER-Cordless-Driver-BDCDD12C/dp/B0111N8L7I/

Spirit, bubble or torpedo level. (under $10) the Hanging kit usually contains just the wires and hooks, but you need a small spirit level for hanging pictures and shelves evenly. doesn't matter the brand they all work the same https://www.amazon.com/WilFiks-Leveling-Resistant-Different-Visibility/dp/B07M62GJYP/

Small tool boxes vary in quality. I don't know if this is for you or someone else. But don't buy anything unless it's a NAME BRAND, cheap metal tools bend and can break with too much torque. Even the Stanley line that Walmart sells isn't fabulous, but it's better than a nameless brand. I don't like SETS of tools, but you need to start someplace, buy GOOD tools one at a time, I love finding $$$ tools at thrift stores. https://www.amazon.com/STANLEY-94-248-Piece-Homeowners-Tool/dp/B000UHMITE/(i bought a cheap socket set 4 years ago to replace my stolen ones and they already have rust)

Bucket organizer. (around $15) If you buy a SET of tools, take the plastic blow molded container and put it in the recycling. You will never bother putting the tools back in and when you get more tools they won't fit. Bucket Organizers are pockets that fit around a 5 gallon bucket. You shove your tools into the pockets and everything else in the middle. And keep it in the bottom of your closet and carry it to where you need the tools. https://www.amazon.com/Bucket-Boss-10030-Bucketeer-BTO/dp/B00GK4TOWK

Tack Hammer. (under $15) You won't need a big 22 oz hammer, but a smaller 16 oz one with a normal handled and then a Tack hammer, these have a narrow head and sometimes are magnetic and hold the nail in place. Tack hammers are easier to use for hanging things exactly where you want them. https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-54-304-5-Ounce-Magnetic-Hammer/dp/B00002X1XD

Stud finder.(under $20) uses a battery, and lets you know where the studs are behind drywall. BEST PURCHASE EVER. https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Stud-Finder-Wall-Detector/dp/B07VLDTVFQ/ any brand will work fine.

Digital Infared Thermometer (under $20) Non-contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun - ALSO BEST PURCHASE EVER... works in the kitchen for food and oven temp, fridge temp, and for locating drafts and cold spots around doors and windows. https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Lasergrip-1080-Non-Contact-Thermometer/dp/B00DMI632G

Toilet Plunger - the sort with the extra bit on the end. https://www.amazon.com/Get-Bats-Out-Plunger-Bathroom/dp/B00ODD5MD0 you do NOT want to be waiting around for someone to unblock your toilet. It may be disgusting but scoop out some of what's in the toilet before you start plunging, it's less disgusting than having to mop it off the floor. You want the plunger that makes a seal around the bottom.

BUCKET. (under $10) mine is constantly in use, i keep it in the tub and toss wet things into it. I have gone through EVERY TYPE on offer...I was so sick of plastic buckets, that warped and stained, where the handles ripped out. But the BEST and cheapest one I have ever found is a flat back duraflex bucket for watering horses. Not kidding. Made of a hard polyethylene these things are designed to be flung around and stepped on by 2000 lb animals. https://www.amazon.com/LITTLE-GIANT-Flat-Back-Dura-Flex-Plastic/dp/B000HHLHPS/ these are cheap if you buy them in a feed store, but even with the shipping on Amazon it is WELL WORTH the money. You will need a bucket when you empty the back of the toilet tank to change the flushing flapper or gasket, and you will need it when you empty the commode itself, if you have to change out the wax seal underneath.

Blanket hangers. (6 for $27) yeah this is obscure, but when I moved I lost a LOT of storage space. These saved my sanity. I use them to hang up quilts and sleeping bags in the back of the closet OFF SEASON. I also use them to hang blankets, sheets curtains and stuff once they come out of the laundry aren't quite dry. I didn't even know there was such a thing before now I wouldn't give them up. https://www.amazon.com/Stock-Your-Home-Comforter-Organization/dp/B00EUG51JU

Flashlight. ($30-50) I've written about these before. Until I bought a GOOD one, I had no idea how bad the others were. Cheap flashlights are great to have scattered about in the cellar, or in the junk drawer. but if you really want TO SEE, get a great flashlight. I gifted myself one for christmas one year and I love it. It hangs by the door and if I am going to be out very late or the weather is bad, I shove it in my bag. It will also illuminate Well past the end of the porch and into the yard if I hear a noise. https://www.amazon.com/Pelican-Carded-SabreLite-Flashlight-Yellow/dp/B01CKAIYV4 any very good brand will do, but I found Maglites to be dangerously useless.

I'm going to approach this from a personal safety perspective. I'm unsure if you are looking for personal safety tips or a more grand view of what can be done as a community to improve safety. But I strongly believe everyone needs to take a personal responsibility for their own safety.

• Buy a gun. Learn how to use and become proficient with it. New Mexico is a shall issue state for concealed carry permits, just need to take the training class and pass the background check. If you don't like or are uncomfortable with the prospect of carrying a gun, I would still at least recommend a shotgun for the home.
  
• Walk with a sense of purpose and maintain an awareness of your surroundings at all times. That means face not buried in a phone screen, headphones on, etc. Keep your head on a swivel, constantly be taking in your surroundings, learn how to discreetly assess other people in your vicinity. Always have a plan for escape, evasion, or defense.
  
• Never find yourself stuck fiddling for your keys in a parking lot or outside your home. Always have your keys or key fob ready and minimize the time you're standing outside your car or house in a potentially vulnerable situation.
  
• Install a tracking device in your car. If it is stolen, recovery becomes easier. Available from your mobile carrier for a nominal monthly fee.
  
• Doors locked and windows rolled up at all times in your car.
  
• Never leave the car running or warming up unattended. I hope EVERYONE in Albuquerque knows this by now.
  
• Front and rear dash cams in your car. Albuquerque drivers are awful and this is very cheap insurance in the event of an incident.
  
• Drive a manual transmission car if you are able to. It's a dying skill and a hilarious number of car thieves and carjackers have been thwarted by the elusive manual transmission.
  
• Park your car in the garage if you have one. Garage full of crap? Rent a dumpster or get a friend with a pickup truck and get to cleaning. Cars last longer and look nicer when garage kept and it's sooo nice to get into a car that hasn't been sitting and baking in the summer sun or freezing in the dead of winter.
  
• In that same vein, enter and exit your home from the garage if you have one. It's a great buffered entry and exit system. Be in your car before you open the garage, and close the garage after you pull in and before you get out of your car. You are never leaving yourself exposed outside this way. I NEVER enter or exit my house through the front door. The only time my front door is ever open is for delivery people.
  
• When stopped in traffic, leave yourself an escape route. Select good lanes for escape and leave enough room from the car in front of you to be able to drive your way out of trouble if needed. Carjackings are unfortunately becoming a more and more common thing in Albuquerque, don't leave yourself vulnerable to someone approaching by foot on the street or trying to box you in with another vehicle.
  
• Keep the interior of your car clean. No belongings in sight, no change in the cupholders, phone chargers, electronics, nothing at all that could possibly entice someone cruising a parking lot and looking into car windows. Anyone peering into your car should see... nothing. If you drive an SUV or hatchback with an open cargo area, invest in a cargo cover and use it.
  
• Doors and windows closed and locked at all times in your home. If you need to keep windows cracked for a swamp cooler or whatever, install some sort of stopper to prevent the window from being opened all the way.
  
• Keep all shades and blinds closed, especially at night. You can see inside of a house from a very long distance away at night. No sense in showcasing your stuff and people do cruise through neighborhoods at night, making notes and looking for easy scores. Deny them that ability.
  
• Get a dog, or two. Train them to bark at people knocking on the door, then to go to their crates or sit calmly with a command if it's someone you're expecting. And besides, dogs are awesome.
  
• Put a no soliciting sign on your door. Surprisingly effective at getting rid of a lot of the door to door riff raff, a large portion of whom are really just people trying to case houses. It's low hanging fruit, but actually works fairly well.
  
• If you have a two story home or otherwise live on an upper floor, have an escape ladder. In the event of a home invasion or something more mundane like a fire, it can be the difference between life and death.
  
• Install a monitored, well signed alarm system and cameras. Don't be that guy on the street whose house is not protected by and showing signage for an alarm system. Guess whose house is going to be first to be broken into? The goal here is to not make your house impossible to break into, just to make it harder than the other guys house.
  
• Maintain the illusion of someone being home even when you're not. That means leave some lights on, leave some music playing, or get one of those nifty TV simulators.
  
• Check your home exterior lighting. Make sure it all works. Install the brightest lights that won't piss off your neighbors and leave them on 24/7.
  
• Don't leave anything of value in your backyard or any implements that could facilitate entry into your house. No power tools, garden implements, toys, ladders, anything. Leave nothing in your backyard that could even remotely entice someone to hop over the fence or wall and help themselves. That stuff belongs stored in the garage or securely locked in a shed.
  
• Trash bins secured where people can't get to them. Shred important documents or anything with personally identifying info before throwing it away.
  
• Take the time to get to know your neighbors a bit. If your neighborhood is active on Nextdoor or has a Facebook group, join it. A neighborhood where the neighbors talk to and look out for each other is a safe neighborhood.
  
• Speaking of social media, don't telegraph your actions, locations, or the fact you're going to be away on vacation for a week. In this social media addicted world, this is easier said than done, but think before you post something that could be potentially compromising from a safety or security perspective. Turn off location embedding on your smartphone's camera.
  
  Remember, it's not the job of the police to prevent crime, it's their job to respond to crime. When seconds count and your life is potentially on the line, the police are minutes away. It's up to you to be proactive about your safety and have the means and ability to defend yourself.

I always felt better having an alarm system. We have Simplisafe--I think it is $250 for the starter set and should be enough equipment for a one bedroom apartment. It is $25 a month for monitoring with no contract, and you can add on stuff like carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. We have a temperature detector that will alert us if the temp gets below 55 degrees (for the pipes and the cats) if we are out of town. You can take it with you when you move and expand it. I've had mine for almost 10 years, starting with a 2 bedroom condo and now a 3 bedroom house.

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher. They make small ones now that you can keep under the kitchen sink. Also make sure you have a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. And a fire ladder if you are on the second floor. Can you tell I am afraid of fires? :)

Find a good pet sitter--one that is insured. I had a friend take care of my cat when I was on vacation...and then she left her in the apartment during a hurricane. I paid someone after that. No one cares as much about your pet as you do. Now it's nice to call someone in an emergency and not be an imposition.

Gotta have one of these on hand!

Kidde 468093 KL-2S Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder with Anti-Slip Rungs, 13-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_27UwDb9JGTRJA

Regardless, good luck OP. Wish you all the best.

Arizona R21-8-112 5c and 5g


>5c. Identify two routes of evacuation from each bedroom on every floor used by individuals residing in or receiving care in the home. At least one of the exit routes for these bedrooms leads directly to the outside of the home, but shall not lead into an area that serves as a pool enclosure;


>5g. Include the placement of equipment, such as a ladder, that can be safely used by the individuals residing in each upstairs bedroom that have been identified with fire exits.

So that's a little murky. You can say that technically they aren't residing in the room so even though in Arizona you'd have to designate a window exit, it shouldn't legally need a fire ladder. But honestly, it's worth the $33 to put one up there anyways for safety. You can wait for a sale if you want, because I've seen these get down in the low $20s.

I own that ladder. It has an accessory that adds an extension for one of the legs.If you look closely you can see it. All and all its not as dangerous as it appears.

Edit:
Yes, yes I agree everyone, it is still dangerous. I suppose I did not clarify things enough in my original statement. What I meant was, that it is better than teetering on 1 leg while someone balances the other leg. The extension blends in with the railing pretty well.

Trust me I’m no stranger to getting things done but I really can’t think of any reason I’d be climbing on a desk or dryer. May I suggest one of these? Rubbermaid RM-3W Folding 3-Step Steel Frame Stool with Hand Grip and Plastic Steps, 200-Pound Capacity, Silver Finish https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003EYVF7G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M-lBCbWA7V2AA

You are definitely cracking me up lol!

Aren't these telescoping ladders? I definitely would never trust one of them, but the ladder in the .gif was a pretty standard extension ladder. I see them all the time and never saw them fail on their own.

But then, I've never seen someone stupid enough to try something like putting the bottom of a ladder on anything but solid ground in person either.

/u/asshair,

There are readily available escape ladders for two story buildings. Here is but one example:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_5RRazbR81YD64

This again is an example, and not an endorsement!

We can't imagine not having one of these ladders, which easily folds for underbed storage.

Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,

Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department

Yes, LAFD has an official subreddit at /r/LAFD

Little Giant Ladders 10121 SkyScraper 300-Pound Duty Rating Adjustable Stepladder, 21-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009H5J82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5QgyCb3S55ZS7

We’re picking this one up soon. 21’ allows us to access most of what we need, and the 300 lb. rating makes it safe. As far as I know, this is the tallest A-frame ladder on the market with this rating that doesn’t have the telescoping center, which we just will not send our guys up on.

I’ve always been told not to get the fiberglass ones, because over time the integrity of the ladder is compromised as it starts to splinter, exposure to sunlight, etc.

EDIT: because that A-frame is heavyyyy and pretty much needs two people to set up, I’d also recommend this:

Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder, 300-Pound Duty Rating, 15422-001 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E1AQE46/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rVgyCbT17XAX9

It also comes in a 26 ft version, can stabilize on multiple surfaces, and has wheels to roll it!

I like danish oil (dark walnut by the look of that example pic) for a stain and clear gloss poly. all you would need to do is sand the pieces with 150 grit then apply the stain in 2-3 coats, it will darken as it dries over time. after its dry sand with 220 grit sand paper and apply 1 coat of poly. wait for it to dry then sand again and apply 1 more coat of poly. both the danish oil and the poly "harden" the piece so the more coats of each you apply the more the pieces will feel like plastic and less like natural wood.

example of poly: https://smile.amazon.com/Minwax-230004444-Drying-Polyurethane-Gloss/dp/B000LNQVXQ/ref=sr_1_7?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1496755772&sr=1-7&keywords=minwax+polyurethane

example of danish oil: https://smile.amazon.com/RUST-OLEUM-242220-Walnut-Danish-Finish/dp/B000ONVIC2/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1496755830&sr=1-1&keywords=dark+walnut+danish+oil

The ladder needs to be 3' over the leading edge (about 3 rungs) and tied off properly. If you can't get 3' because the ladder is too short, you can use extension handles instead.
https://www.amazon.com/Guardian-Fall-Protection-10800-Extension/dp/B003HKRVHU

I would also say that using USB cables to tie off your ladder, wouldn't be considered to be "adequate". Tie wire, cable, or rope would be the way to go.

1926.1053(b)(1)

When portable ladders are used for access to an upper landing surface, the ladder side rails shall extend at least 3 feet (.9 m) above the upper landing surface to which the ladder is used to gain access; or, when such an extension is not possible because of the ladder's length, then the ladder shall be secured at its top to a rigid support that will not deflect, and a grasping device, such as a grabrail, shall be provided to assist employees in mounting and dismounting the ladder. In no case shall the extension be such that ladder deflection under a load would, by itself, cause the ladder to slip off its support.


__

http://www.rei.com/product/792994/swix-fx-wide-skisnowboard-vise

Alternately you can get 2 sawhorses, specifically this kind has a grippy surface on top, and then you don't need a table or work bench to attach the vises to.

Lastly you can always just decide not to scrape. Scraping is the only part you really need the board secured for. The mountain will scrape your board for you after a few runs, although I encourage you to use eco friendly wax if you decide to go this route.

People I know that have the 17 Ft. Type IA Multi-Task Ladder say it is branded Vulcan and is fine.

I find that style immensely heavy. Using it in trestle form is OK, on stairs or uneven surfaces it is great, and as an extension ladder it requires a couple of helpers to get it lifted into place.

The stripes themselves are going to be fairly easy to paint. Get some flat white ceiling paint, a thick napped roller (1/2" or 5/8"), and a long extension handle. Just make sure you cover everything really well, because a thicker napped roller will throw paint.

The stepped ceiling is going to be a little more challenging, because you will never be able to roll those painted corners. For that, you should really just consider getting a ladder and brushing it. I highly recommend the Little Giant style folding ladder. Doesn't take up much space, but it's incredibly useful.

Yep, I bought an extension ladder, and it was delivered for free. That one purchase probably paid for Prime for the year. I love Prime and wouldn't give it up even if it was more than this.

Honestly, it's probably super easy to breach that wall with a rod and portable ladder.

The trick is getting to the wall in the first place without dying, and making it from the wall to the city without getting caught. Gimme a break, only few make that trek. Ain't nobody carrying drugs over a wall. The cartels run the tunnels.

Yes. The ladder I use though is a telescoping ladder. All the inspectors in my area use these types of ladders
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FVP5Q4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_i.ATDbF8TDAPX
.
It's easy to fit in my car since I don't need a ladder rack. Even though I haven't tried bringing it on my motorcycle, I feel it's small enough that I could easily pull it off.

This design is up to 30 feet tall, according to Trump.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-visit-border-wall-san-diego-ca/

> The wall is 30 feet high.  We also have 18-foot wall.  We have a combination of 30 feet and 18 [feet], depending on the area, depending on the — on the importance.

There are definitely ladders long enough for that.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Werner-28-ft-Fiberglass-Extension-Ladder-with-300-lbs-Load-Capacity-Type-IA-Duty-Rating-D6228-2/100659879

Rope ladders can be longer.
https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Escape-ladder-Resistant-Ladders/dp/B07CMNB71M/

Models with hooks instead of loops at the top can be easily tossed over the barricade. https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Escape-Ladder-25-3-Story/dp/B005YSY0AY


But yes, I know you're not arguing that the wall can just be built higher since you share the opinion that it's a foolish pursuit. Just highlighting exactly how ridiculous.

I love this ladder: Little Giant 14016-001 Alta One Type 1 Model 22-foot Ladder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004G7TAEA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2PMczbN3QXRA9

It's heavy, but great to have an adjustable ladder for different internal height ceilings, and the folding ladder means you can get up onto your roof. Also invest in a light weight step stool for every day jobs (getting stuff off high shelves, changing bulbs, etc)

I have two of the Little giants. I found the 17' was good, but occasionally I couldn't quite reach stuff. The 22' has been great though.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1AQE46/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Unless you're fine with wood veneer on pressboard, skip the Karlby and most of the others. Get the Hammarp. Solid oak beauty right there. I use one of those for my desk. Polished it up with fine grit sandpaper on a rotary sander and finished with a healthy dose of Danish wood oil. The link goes to one with a dark walnut stain but there are tons of color options (or no stain if you like the natural oak color).

Run

You didn’t say what grade or what floor her room will be on but maybe an escape ladder.. This may be going to far but I’m spit-balling here. Also, if she can’t take the kids with her then it’s going to look pretty bad if she takes off by herself/first.

If the windows don’t open and are tempered she’ll need something like this. I’m not sure if it will work on building saftey glass so you might want to research that more.

Hide

Door wedges that hold doors open can also hold them closed


Fight

Consider adding a tactical flashlight.. Bright, strobe option, Strike Bezel if it comes to that.

If she’s got a good throwing arm maybe lacrosse balls, baseballs, rocks, steel pinballs or something to use in a last ditch effort.

Maybe a whistle - generally remain quite but a very loud piercing whistle could distract. Also, if the time is right it can be used to signal for assistance.

Can you use standoffs to get you the clearance you need without overdoing the angle?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00064COJA/ref=psdc_553472_t3_B018A2ZZ1S

Yes, they lose strength at lower angles. Whether it's safe depends on the ladder's rating, your weight, and how much you bounce. :) If you're 150lbs and using a IAA ladder you're fine. If you're 220lbs using a type III, you might be going for a ride.

I moved in February. Currently our house is almost empty, but I'm cool with that.

I have bought several things. A ladder, a mower, and the Nest.

The ladder has many uses and the mower is electric, so I don't need to pay for gas. The Nest was something I could have avoided buying, but I wanted the ability to control the thermostat remotely and be able to sense when I'm there or not, as we end up being gone for much of the summer.

I did end up buying some cheapo tools from Harbor Freight, but aside from that we have just been recovering and saving for home improvement projects and furnishings.

Not sure id it would help in your perticular situation as i havent seen the stairs, but i typically use this type of ladder when im doimg stuff on stairs, its a godsend. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004G7TAEA/ref=pd_aw_lpo_60_bs_img_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=RE26R9MWV10SFCH58WB4

Sorta... I just checked my original order, and it was $163 with free prime 2 day. Today it's $208 and one week shipping, and not sold by or shipped from Amazon.
Still not complainin'.
https://www.amazon.com/Werner-MT-22-300-Pound-Telescoping-Multi-Ladder/dp/B0000VYDHU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505349485

Our rv has a rear ladder but i really do not trust it. I need to get up top now and again to clean or adjust solar panels.

I carry this ladder. Does what i need and fits in the basement. Weighs about 25lbs.
They come in multiple heights. my rig is about 12ft high so i got a few feet higher so i could safely reach the top.
https://www.amazon.com/Xtend-Climb-785P-Telescoping-Professional/dp/B000JIL4Z8

Another $80 and you could get a Little Giant off amazon. Free shipping if you have prime.
https://www.amazon.com/Little-Giant-14016-001-22-foot-Ladder/dp/B004G7TAEA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484700913&sr=8-1&keywords=LITTLE+GIANT+LADDER

I've been happy with this one

Xtend & Climb 785P Aluminum Telescoping Ladder Type I Professional Series, 15.5-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JIL4Z8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7QTBxbEFF1JVM

You could do it for free if you live near some train tracks.

• Giit idea 1
  
• Gift idea 2
  

Well I have one, and so do other people I know.
The #1 fire escape ladder on Amazon is $35. Seems like a no-brainer to me.

LADDER SUPPORT CONFRIMED

Like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Kidde-468093-Two-Story-Anti-Slip-13-Foot/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1542306801&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=fire+ladder&psc=1

yes they do Little Giant Ladders 10121 SkyScraper

I have a small step ladder, like 3 feet tall. I set it up and rest the door on it, align the hinges and only have to raise it a few inches to get them inserted.

http://www.amazon.com/Louisville-Ladder-AS3002-300-Pound-Stepladder/dp/B00182TWL2/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1457520060&sr=8-5&keywords=small+step+ladder

If his bedroom is on the second floor, and you're mildly paranoid like I am, consider a folding fire escape ladder for this room "just in case." Something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005OU7B/ref=s9_acsd_topr_hd_bw_bDLKN_c_x_5_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=M32S5J78KWM9TXQVT470&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=61a85868-2d32-532a-bbf2-56db3677eaec&pf_rd_i=3180251

I will say that I bought one of those do it all ladders 2 years ago. I personally think it is a nice to have because they last so long and you never know when you might need to get into a weird corner. This is coming from someone that isn't a handy man by any means.

I use one to get into the attic of my townhouse. Its great because I can collapse it and store it off to the side in my closet. Its portable enough to move around.

This is the one I have: ladder

My list (in addition to what others have said):

1. Tools: quality hammer, screw drivers (regular and Phil), ratchet set, and pliers/vice grip/channel lock set (preferably one that comes with needle-nose pliers, and a few adjustable wrenches);
   
   
2. Corded drill (I like DeWalt), preferably one that comes with a set of bits, and a grounded extension cord;
   
   
3. One of those multi-position step ladders (like this)
   
   
4. A big cast-iron skillet, the biggest you can find, and an enameled dutch oven (Le Creuset preferred);
   
   
5. Smoke detectors for every room and hallway (maybe a few CO detectors as well if you're in a climate that has a furnace);
   
   
6. Fire extinguisher for the kitchen;
   
   
7. A few of those cheap LED flashlights sprinkled around the house;
   
   Those are the things you don't think about until you really, REALLY need them (with the exception of the cookware; those you'll wonder how you every went a day without). Everything else you can buy as you need.
   
   

Buy a ladder?

For shorter distances I'd get this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00005OU7B/ref=mh_s9_acsd_top_bDLKN_c_x_1_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-11&pf_rd_r=57GF9F6FNAN9E0JWA20G&pf_rd_t=30901&pf_rd_p=9e9154c1-0b62-558c-85e4-67b673122acb&pf_rd_i=3180251

I could never see you needing more than 2 of these, ever.

I heard they've got this new wall-defeating technology.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1AQE46/

I got a drop down ladder from Amazon for about $30 and the case worker was okay with that and it just sits in the closet in the child's room. We rent so I needed something less permanent.

Here is the link to the one I got Kidde KL-2S Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder with Anti-Slip Rungs, 13-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_UyeNxbD6NCBJV

I would also recommend getting emergency ladders if you cant get down safely from a bedroom window:
Kidde 468093 KL-2S Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder with Anti-Slip Rungs, 13-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_E07xDbV92QK4V

Graffiti artist here, it really depends on where it is. Usually we climb, sometimes these fire escape ladders are used, and sometimes the graffiti is old, and there used to be a structure or platform below it, that has since got removed. Sorry if that wasn't very clear I'm at a [7]

Emergency Ladder. Hang out a window. Example

I would tell the poster to get a fire escape ladder, but no one should remain in that apartment long enough for a ladder to arrive by mail!

Safety things! Make sure you buy yourself a small fire extinguisher to keep under the kitchen sink. Check the batteries in your fire alarms the first night you're there, and replace them every six months or burn the shit out of your food to test them regularly (what I end up doing). If you live in a second-story or above apartment, buy a collapsible rope ladder to keep under your bed! Something like this that you could easily pull out and climb down to safety with if you wake up and find your apartment's hallways are on fire.

Other things I've found are useful are kitchen essentials like a crock pot. You can buy one cheap from Target for $15 and it cooks a week's worth of food at once. When I moved out I bought a ton of those Tupperware containers so I'll cook a good meal for four in the crock pot or on the stove and then freeze three portions to take to the office or to reheat if I get home late and am tired. My biggest problem with living alone is food waste - I'll buy a bag of bagels or something, eat two, and forget about the rest until they're bad a moldy. The best way I've found to combat this is to really precisely plan your meals out. I go shopping every two weeks and I'll plan for 10 dinners, with the idea that most lunches will be leftovers and some nights I'll eat leftovers or go out with friends. So I'll have a list to buy ingredients for those 10 dinners and that's it. I'll buy some fresh fruit and some juice maybe, but I strictly keep myself on menu. It really cuts down on waste and it keeps me from just grabbing fast food on the way home because I don't have anything planned and I'm too tired to cook.

I too live in a '20s build (in the UK.) It's sticks and bricks though and we have dragged it into C21. I also happen to be my company's Fire Worryabouterer and when the missus decided to run a small pet care business from home, I wrote up a fire safety plan for the place to comply with insurance and local council policy. At no time did I bother mentioning the network wiring (I'm also a reasonable cable monkey).

Fire needs three things: Ignition source; something to burn; and oxygen. Oxygen is hard to avoid. Ignition - sparks are unlikely in such low voltage/power - OK, buy shielded CAT6 or CAT6a and earth it. Something to burn: specify cable with fire retardant sleeving.

If you are going to look into fire safety, then do the job properly and please do. It does not cost a lot. Some notes:

• Get a fire blanket fitted next to your cooker.
  
  
• At least one fire extinguisher per floor - "dry water" (atomized water in nitrogen) is safe for all home fires or foam if that's not available.
  
  
• One shot escape ladder for your bedroom(s) if they are upstairs.
  
  
• Fit plenty of smoke detectors and test them. While you are at it consider CO detectors if necessary.
  
  
• De-fluff the back of the fridge/freezer, cookers, other white goods (especially tumble driers) and use your 'leccy skills to check them regularly for safety. Tumble driers and older white goods are a common source of fire. Can you move the drier out of the house?
  
  
• Check ventilation spaces around devices that spit out heat.
  
  
• Politely suggest the SO stops leaving tea towels and other flameable stuff near the cooker.
  
  
• Check all appliances cough wifey's hair tongs, hair drier ie high power things with probably knackered cables cough. Don't forget the vacuum cleaner and other things stuffed into drawers.
  
  
• Look at wall warts - throw away any that you can't pronounce the manufacturer's name. Ban unbranded charging devices
  
  
• Check your power outlets for spark potential
  
  
• Ban or at least minimise extension cables - add more wall outlets on your rings
  
  
• Ban glass ornaments on window cills.
  
  
• Think about water pipes and potential for mixing water and 'leccy.
  
  
• Think about escape routes.
  
  Spend a couple of hours over all this and perhaps half an hour updating the plan/notes per year there after. Two small dry water extinguishers + a cooker fire blanket + escape ladder say £150. OK and a couple of minutes testing the alarms when you remember. Walk your house and look hard and remember the three requirements for fire and do your risk assessment. You say you are a sparky with knobs on, so bloody well do your thing and at least test your 'leccy circuits for resistance and other standards.
  
  If you'd like a copy of my fire plan, then PM me (offer open to all) If I get swamped with requests 8) I'll stick it on a web server and post a link. I think if you show the boss that you are taking things seriously, then she can't complain and besides, you'll need her to proof read and approve the final release. That way you get buy in and perhaps some cred. Finally and most importantly, you will both be a bit safer: fire never happens until it does and then you don't want to be saying "what if".
  
  https://www.safelincs.co.uk/ultrafire-water-mist-fire-extinguishers/
  
  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kidde-468093-Two-Storey-Escape-Ladder/dp/B00005OU7B/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1520634610&sr=8-3&keywords=fire+ladder&dpID=41kOHXbIyCL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Just spent hundreds of dollars on fire safety equipment because of this heroic article. FYI:

[Interconnected Smoke Alarms] (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B003WITCMY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gpvlDb8V524KS)

One on each floor plus bedrooms.

2 Storey Fire Ladder

Also:

Bedroom - smoke alarm, CO alarm, (plus extinguisher in master)
Hallway - smoke alarm, CO alarm,
Kitchen - smoke alarm, extinguisher
Living Room - smoke alarm, CO alarm, extinguisher
Basement - smoke alarm, CO alarm, extinguisher
Garage - fire extinguisher