The Escalator

An escalator is a staircase that moves. You just step on and it carries you up or down. The steps are made of metal and move in a loop. There are rubber handrails on both sides to hold on to. Escalators are found in malls, airports, and train stations.

A Moving Staircase

An American man named Jesse Reno made an early escalator in 1892. It was more like a moving ramp. Charles Seeberger later made one with flat steps. His design was shown at a fair in Paris in 1900. The word escalator used to be a brand name before it became a common word.

Staying Safe

You should hold the handrail when riding an escalator. Keep your feet away from the edges of the steps. Do not sit down or play on the steps. When you get to the end, step off quickly. Small kids should always ride with a grown-up.

Fun Facts

• The longest escalator system in the world is in Hong Kong.
• Escalators can move about 10,000 people per hour.
• Some escalators move sideways and are called moving walkways.

Did You Know?

If an escalator breaks down, it just becomes a regular staircase. You can still walk up or down it.