'Last Resort' Parachute for High Rise Structures

It's a scenario made even more frightening by graphic television footage in recent times - trapped at the top of a burning building with exits cut-off facing the gruesome choice between jumping or perishing in flames. Developed as a "last resort" in such an emergency, Evacuchute is specifically designed and engineered for building evacuations - the static line parachute is automatically deployed in less than 1.5 seconds and moves the individual away from the building to ensure a safe, low-impact deployment and a controlled descent at low altitude.

It's a scenario made even more frightening by graphic television footage in recent times - trapped at the top of a burning building with exits cut-off facing the gruesome choice between jumping or perishing in flames.

Developed as a "last resort" in such an emergency, Evacuchute is specifically designed and engineered for building evacuations - the static line parachute is automatically deployed in less than 1.5 seconds and moves the individual away from the building to ensure a safe, low-impact deployment and a controlled descent at low altitude.

Co-founders Jeremy Ireland and Michael Shuken realised the need for this product after the 9/11 attack in the US and not surprisingly, Evacuchute has experienced an increase in sales and inquires due to heightened awareness of terrorism during 2003.

Evacuchute is the only rescue parachute tested from a high-rise building using real people according to the manufacturers and video footage can be viewed at the website listed below. Key features of the patent-pending design include special air vents that move the user forward and away from the building, the ability to open fast and in the correct direction as well as slow descent and stability in turbulent conditions.

The Evacuchute has been tested to safely deploy from heights of 42 metres (approximately 15 floors above ground) and Evacuchutes designed specifically for fire rescue personnel are also available.