In an emergency the simplest solutions are the best. The Banks Down & Out fire escape rope ladder is ready to use at any time, where you need it, without having to find, unpack and deploy a standard portable boxed ladder.

Suitable for most standard windows the ladder sits in a small, neat white box, permanently secured to the wall underneath the window sill. The box dimensions are 315 x 133 x 75mm and weighs approx 1 kg. To use the ladder in an emergency, simply pull the cover towards you and throw the unit out of the window - the weight of the cover will deploy the ladder to its full length. You can install the ladder either directly underneath the window sill or below a radiator. They require a simple DIY install with a couple of screws, instructions and fittings are included. There is an excellent demonstration video that you can view by clicking the link below the product picture above.

The ladder rope is fire retardant in a fluorescent colour, ensuring good visibility in low light situations. The plastic rungs are flame-retardant and feature ribbed anti-slip rungs with anti-rotating stand-offs to allow for hands to grip and to keep ladder off the wall ensuring that you get a firm foot hold in the rungs and no trapped fingers. They have been tested to withstand a distributed load of 453 kg (71 st) so you could just about get three adults on them at the same time.

The Down & Out Fire Escape Ladders satisfy the requirement for means of permanent, alternative escape and are suited for offices and hotels as well as private properties.