How long will it take to find your place?

        Finding the location of an emergency quickly could make the difference between life and death. Emergency Responders often have difficulty indentifying specific locations because addresses are poorly marked. A great many residences and businesses do not have their addresses posted at all. Many others have missing numbers or shrubery and decorations obstructing there address numbers.

Can we see your numbers from the street?

        Many houses have numbers on them when they are constructed. Over the years, trees and shrubs or fences may block the view of these numbers. Decorative flower designs and other lawn items can hamper a clear sight. Painters often will remove or paint over numbers without a second thought of their importance.

Important things to consider when posting addresses:

-    Numbers should be posted on the street side of the structure near the main entrance whenever possible. This is the easiest way for responders to identify the proper address of the building. Numbers on mailboxes can get confusing, especially when they are all on the same side of the street.

-    Numbers should be at least 3" high in contrasting colors and gothic style. Script writing is decorative but very difficult to read accurately in a hurry. Many residents are purchasing gold colored numbers and placing them on white surfaces making it very difficult to see on a sunny day or at night. Gold on White should not be considered "contrasting".

-    Numbers should be placed high enough not to be covered by snow or leaf accumulations. Never place any items in front of posted numbers like holiday decorations or flower arrangements. Numbers painted on curbs or rocks can be covered in inclement weather.

-    Post numbers at the street if visibility is difficult from the roadway. Structures farther than 100 feet from the road, located in heavily wooded lots, or on windy driveways should post their numbers by the entrance at the street. Numbers can be placed on mailbox posts, fence posts, or individually. Numbers should be visible from any direction traveled on the roadway and from at least 1/8 mile away.

What About At Night?

        Finding addresses after dark is equally as important and usually more difficult. Use of lighted signs or reflective materials improve visibility considerably. Strategic planning to mount the address numbers close to an outside light source may be an easy solution.

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            Last Revision:     11/08/04