Normally, you’d find a string hanging from the cover of the stairway. For outside locations that might present a bit of a security issue. A quick pad lock will help secure the hatch. Done…unless there was NO string to pull!
Have you noticed that some areas in your home are cooler or warmer (depending on the season) than other parts of your home. Maybe it’s a corner or an entire side wall. Air flow is important. Good air flow is even more important.
I’ve lost count of the number of homes I’ve inspected that have folding stairway built into the hallway or laundry room ceiling. More often than not the folding legs are not trimmed to the correct length or properly secured to the framing.