Purpose of key locking on windows?

Possom1

I was wondering what is the purpose of key locking on house windows?

Once the handle of a window is pushed into the correct position the window is closed and cannot (in theory) be opened from the outside.

But some/many window handles also have a key to lock them internally. Is this to stop someone from getting out, or what is the point of the inside key lock?

Tails142

Possom1 wrote: »

I was wondering what is the purpose of key locking on house windows?

Once the handle of a window is pushed into the correct position the window is closed and cannot (in theory) be opened from the outside.

But some/many window handles also have a key to lock them internally. Is this to stop someone from getting out, or what is the point of the inside key lock?

I guess just to stop kids climbing out the window? It's the only worth while reason I can think of.

It does my head in when I try to open a window and the wife has locked them up.

House insurance also has a clause that if your window has locks and they aren't locked you're not covered in event of a break in, why I don't know.

ahnowbrowncow

If you have kids you wouldn't want them opening the window and running out on the road.

slimjimmc

Locking handles are main to prevent kids opening the window but they can also give extra security in case a top sash is left open and someone reaches in or tries to use something to hook the handle and open the main window.

dathi

Tails142 wrote: »

I guess just to stop kids climbing out the window? It's the only worth while reason I can think.

building regulations prohibit the use of window locks on bedroom windows as windows have to be used as a means of escape in case of fire.

stooge

dathi wrote: »

building regulations prohibit the use of window locks on bedroom windows as windows have to be used as a means of escape in case of fire.

correct. you should not have locks on bedroom windows. if you do, ensure they are always unlocked in case of fire.