Are Balconies Safe

Balconies always scare the crap out of me. The whole scene in Single White Female with the puppy falling ruined them for me forever.

I was at a friend's house once, and I went out on the balcony to be with a woman, whom I liked, but when I went out there, and leaned on the rail, it moved slightly. When I saw that, I did not hesitate to leave. I suggested to the lady to go back inside and when I told her the rail was loose, she agreed and I followed her. I wasn't scared. Just very concerned about her and my safety.

@hhusted I heard about the incident and was shocked. Balconies are a big selling point in NYC's real estate market but somehow I always wonder about their practicality. Thanks to the 6 month long winters you can't use the balcony all year round and I rather save the wastage of space and have the balcony space enclosed in one of my rooms I think.

@Uptowngirl: I used to live in an apartment in Lindenwold, NJ with my ex. That apartment had a balcony, and it was the best experience. We lived on the second level and the balcony was in the best of shape. We loved it. We were always sitting around, in lounge chairs enjoying the sunshine and scenery.

@hhusted I have a huge balcony which overlooks the ocean at my family home in Mumbai. We use the balcony which has a bar and seating on it as a major entertainment nook. Its warm all year round in Mumnai so its possible but here in NYC with the weather as it is I dont miss a balcony but I know several friends who covet one as they want to have the outdoor space for a barbecue grill especially for the summers. So I can understand their appeal.