Fire Safety Information for Owners and Guests
Vacation rentals are common throughout Girdwood, and they come with their own set of fire safety rules and responsibilities. Whether you own a rental property or you’re staying in one, knowing where the exits are and how the safety equipment works can make all the difference in an emergency.
For Rental Property Owners
If you operate a vacation rental in Girdwood, you’re responsible for meeting the Municipality of Anchorage’s safety standards before you can list your property.
- Register your short-term rental with the Municipality of Anchorage.
- Install working, interconnected smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level if your property has a wood stove, gas appliances, or an attached garage.
- Keep at least one charged, accessible fire extinguisher on each floor, ideally near the kitchen or heating equipment.
- Make sure every bedroom has two exits, and that windows aren’t painted shut or swollen shut.
- Clear snow and ice from exterior doors, window wells, and fire escapes throughout winter.
- Provide a local contact who’s reachable 24/7 in case of an emergency at the property.
- Leave a simple exit map or written escape plan somewhere guests will see it.
For Renters & Guests
Take a few minutes when you arrive to get familiar with the property – it’s one of the easiest ways to stay safe.
- Know the full address of where you’re staying in case you need to call 911.
- Locate two ways out of every room you’re sleeping in.
- Check that bedroom windows open easily and aren’t obstructed, painted, or swollen shut; these are your backup exits.
- Find the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and confirm they’re working.
- Locate the fire extinguisher and take a moment to read the instructions before you need it.
- Keep exterior doors, paths, and fire escapes clear of snow and ice.
- Agree on an outdoor meeting spot with everyone in your group in case you need to evacuate.
- If you notice any missing safety equipment or blocked exits during your stay, notify your host or property manager immediately.