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Frequently Asked Questions |
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How long does it take to install a slidepole? It takes two workers approximately two hours for the Model 19, two workers approximately six hours for the Model 20, and two workers approximately ten hours for the Model 23. |
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What are McIntire poles made of?Our poles are made of heavy-wall brass or stainless steel. Cold-drawn brass is considered the most desirable as it is not only highly functional, it also conveys warmth and tradition. Either metal will retain its luster with minimal regular maintenance.
Our slide pole assemblies consist of polished and chromed heavy-wall bronze castings and satin-finished stainless-steel guards. We go to these lengths to give our slide pole systems strength, durability, and beauty that cannot be replicated in any other manner.
Our materials, finishes, and assembly methods ensure that the poles - no matter what length or style - will be safe, durable, and perform for the life of the fire station. |
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Are poles expensive?Poles are a less expensive option when compared to the cost of installing stairs or an elevator. |
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Are poles still being used?More so today. Lack of available building space and general economics have made two story stations a necessity. Poles are still the fastest, safest way to the first floor. |
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Why get a Model 20 or Model 23 and not just put a Model 19 in a closet?The cost of building a closet exceeds the cost of purchasing a Model 20 which comes complete with pole, guards, gates, trim rings for floor and ceiling, stainless steel insert, and shutters. The Model 20 and Model 23 both take less room on the second floor and do not obstruct the view within the room or hall where they are placed. Closets tend to be placed on the periphery of a room, hall, or building, whereas a Model 20 or Model 23 can be centrally located anywhere within the station. They are an attractive addition to any room. |
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Have you ever sold a pole for home use?Most of our poles are sold to fire stations. However, an increasing number are sold for unique installations in homes, barns, and offices. We have even sold a pole to access a safe room. Our poles, while intended for heavy-use in a fire station, are also very attractive. |
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How has pole safety evolved? All current Model 20 and Model 23 units come with stainless steel guards and self-closing gates which eliminate unprotected openings on the upper level. All Model 19 and older Model 20 units can be retrofitted with this safety equipment. Our landing mats are made of rubber specifically designed for slide poles and are constantly being updated so that the best material we can purchase is in use. |
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Why are poles safer than stairs?Accidents happen when first responders are reacting to a call. Seconds count and poles are naturally the fastest way between floors. Stairs impede good flow and create bottlenecks. Stairs require a first responder to run down hallways, around corners, through multiple doorways, skip steps, and move across obstructed and often wet apparatus bays. All of these points of egress are part of “the stair equation” and provide multiple opportunities for accidents to happen. Count the steps laterally and vertically when using stairs . . . Distance = Danger. Accidents on stairs cause upper and lower body injuries as well as injuries involving multiple people, i.e., multiple claim occurrences.
A well-placed pole located at the busiest location upstairs (hallway intersection, kitchen, bunkrooms) delivers the first responder where they need to be downstairs without exposing them to multiple points for accidents. When used properly, they are the fastest and safest way to get a first responder from an upper level to the apparatus.
This being said, slide poles are not just a novelty and should not be used in a casual manner. They are an essential piece of equipment used by first responders to significantly reduce response times to a call. Training is integral for the effective use of the pole, much like any other equipment in the first responder tool box. |
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Why buy a McIntire pole?McIntire has been making slide poles for over 100 years, but we are not resting on our laurels. We constantly strive to make a better, safer, more durable product. Whenever there is a slide pole question, people call McIntire.
We do not make architectural products like hand rails, bar rails, etc. We make slide poles and slide pole accessories... period. We stand behind the workmanship and quality of our product.
A McIntire slide pole is a point of pride for fire stations and a magnet of interest for visitors to the station. We are proud to be part of this tradition providing first responders with the best tools possible. |
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What do I do if I have an old pole that needs to be polished?We recommend the poles be polished on a regular schedule to eliminate pole drag and have found that Noxon®, Brasso® or Wicked® does an excellent job. However, a pole taken out of service may now be black. At this point you will need a professional with polishing jacks to restore the pole. We can do this for you if you send it to us. |
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