Fire extinguishers and fire escape ladders?

[Dana Chun]

Hi there, I have a two story four bedroom unit that I am renting to a group of college students. One of the fathers has asked if I could provide fire extinguishers on each floor and a fire escape ladder since all of the bedrooms are upstairs. I called the local fire department and they said that I don't have a legal obligation to supply these items. My concern if I do decide to supply some or all of these items is that I would be liable if a fire extinguisher or escape ladder malfunctioned. If I decided to supply these items I would also probably be responsible for having the extinguishers periodically checked. Any suggestions? FYI- I have three units occupied by college students so there is a possibility that what I do for one unit I would also have to do for the other 2. Thanks, Dana