Abstract: A climbing system includes a treestand and a plurality of climbing sticks. The treestand includes a monolithic platform formed from strengthened material. Each of the climbing sticks includes a frame having a plurality of weight-reduction apertures formed therethrough. Methods of manufacturing a treestand and climbing sticks are also disclosed. The method of manufacturing a treestand includes providing a solid, strengthened piece of material and removing portions of the material to form openings between structural supports. The method of manufacturing a climbing stick includes providing a frame and forming a plurality of weight-reduction apertures therethrough.

Abstract: A platform assembly for attachment to a tree includes a platform and a post. The platform has an outer perimeter that bounds an interior structure of the platform that is horizontally-inboard of the outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes a rear portion, a first wing portion coupled to the rear portion at a first wing portion rear corner and including an outboard-most portion of the outer perimeter in a first lateral direction, a front portion coupled to the first wing portion, and a second wing portion coupled to the front portion. The post is coupled to the platform and pivots relative to the platform about a pivot axis.

Abstract: In some implementations, in an emergency in the vehicle, an emergency evacuation path is illuminated using the light emitted from the emergency evacuation rope where at least a portion of the emergency evacuation path extends to a location outside the vehicle. Egress of occupants along the emergency evacuation path is enabled using an emergency evacuation rope.

Abstract: A hatch arrangement with at least one slidable hatch for closing an opening in a floor of a wind turbine including a first guiding device fixedly mountable to the floor and a second guiding device pivotably mountable to the floor, a first coupling means to guide the slidable hatch along a first guidance path in the first guiding device and a second coupling means to couple the slidable hatch at least pivotably to the second guiding device, wherein the slidable hatch is coupled to the first guiding device at a first position and to the second guiding device at a second position, wherein a movement of the slidable hatch from a closed position along the first guidance path results in a pivoting movement of the second guiding device and in a movement of the slidable hatch to an open position and vice versa is provided.

Abstract: A tree stand is disclosed for use in supporting an occupant in an elevated position in a tree. The tree stand includes: a ladder assembly; a support structure secured to the ladder assembly; a jaw assembly; a strap assembly; and an anchor that is securable to the tree. The jaw assembly includes first and second jaws, and is pivotally secured to the support structure such that the jaws are inwardly movable to close the jaw assembly. The strap assembly includes a first strap that extends from the support structure into contact with the first jaw, and a second strap that extends from the support structure into contact with the second jaw. The strap assembly is connectable to the anchor such that the straps are arranged in overlapping, crosswise relation behind the tree, whereby a tensioning force applied to the strap assembly forces the jaws inwardly towards the tree.

Abstract: A climbing system includes a treestand and a plurality of climbing sticks. The treestand includes a monolithic platform formed from strengthened material. Each of the climbing sticks includes a frame having a plurality of weight-reduction apertures formed therethrough. Methods of manufacturing a treestand and climbing sticks are also disclosed. The method of manufacturing a treestand includes providing a solid, strengthened piece of material and removing portions of the material to form openings between structural supports. The method of manufacturing a climbing stick includes providing a frame and forming a plurality of weight-reduction apertures therethrough.

Abstract: Systems and methods for preparing and delivering a close out package detailing work performed at a telecommunications site includes, subsequent to the work, performing data capture at the telecommunications site through a plurality of techniques; processing the data capture to define a three dimensional (3D) model of the telecommunications site based on one or more objects of interest associated with the cell site components and noting the work in the 3D model; and incorporating the 3D model in a close out package and providing the close out package to one or more users.

Abstract: Disclosed is a step assembly with fall arrest capability for use in climbing a utility structure, including a removable step unit. The step assembly comprises the step unit including two leg members, a leg holder including two cylinders, and an expansion anchor including multiple fins. The combination of the leg holder and the expansion anchor is configured to be secured with the utility structure based on bending the fins at the shoulder sections to have the fins opened inside the utility structure while the leg holder is in contact with and outside the utility structure. The step unit can be detachably attached to the secured combination by inserting the two leg members through the two cylinders of the leg holder, respectively.

Abstract: A fall arrest harness comprises a pair of shoulder straps, a pair of leg straps and a rear section extending therebetween, a lanyard connection member being connected to a sternal or chest region of the shoulder straps, the rear section defining a seat portion, adapted to lie across the sub-pelvic region or seat of the wearer, and a back portion, adapted to overlie at least a portion of the back of the wearer, the shoulder straps extending between side regions of the seat portion, preferably adjacent a lower edge thereof, and an upper region of the back portion, whereby the wearer, when suspended in the harness by the lanyard connection member, lies in a supine position with the weight of the wearer supported by the seat portion and back portion of the rear section and the shoulder straps with no load being borne by the leg straps.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a telescoping step system which has at least one stringer assembly having telescopically coupled first and second tubular components. The second tubular component is telescopically extendable relative to the first tubular component. The stringer assembly is operably associated with a structure. The system further has at least one step assembly associated with one of the first and second tubular components. The stringer assembly is telescopically collapsible into a retracted position to form a compact assembly either adjacent to or within a portion of the structure, and extendable into an extended position extending outwardly from the structure. In the extended position the stringer assembly presents the step assembly as a platform which a user is able to step on to, and thus aids the user with ingress into and egress from the structure.

Abstract: Ladder modules are provided in manageable length sections. The first section is secured at the top with a multi-hole horizontal mounting bar that is secured by a ratchet strap with hooks. The bottom of the first section rests firmly on the ground with a cleat at the bottom to secure the ladder section and prevent shifting. The second section contains a ball on the bottom of the structure that is mounted onto the first section by placing the ball into the receiving end of the first section, which allows the second section to pivot 360 degrees and lean and tilt fore and aft. This section is also secured to the tree with a ratchet strap and hooks, and is safe to climb to the next section after tightening the ratchet strap. Additional sections can be added in the same manner as the second section to pivot and level as needed.

Abstract: The anchor device includes a post movably connected to a base and is lockable in shovel, anchor and storage positions. First, it is locked in a shovel position and a hole is dug in beach sand. The anchor device is then disengaged from the shovel position and then locked into an anchor position and then inserted into the hole and then covered with beach sand to secure the post portion of the anchor device in a vertical position with a portion of the post exposed above the surface of the sand. A beach umbrella is inserted into and secured to the post. To remove the anchor device from the sand, the anchor lock position is disengaged from above the sand to permit the post and the base to freely pivot relative to each other so the base and post can be easily pulled from the sand.

Abstract: A tensioning arrangement uses a tendon to pull together (pre-stress) a hollow steel arm and a bracket in a localized area around the joint between the arm and the bracket in order to induce localized compressive stresses that will reduce the wind-induced, intermittent tensile stresses and hence minimize fatigue at the joint between the arm and the bracket.

Abstract: A tree stand comprises a metal post, a lower platform pivotably coupled to the metal post for pivoting between a platform extended position and a platform folded position, an upper seat pivotably coupled to the post for pivoting between a seat extended position and a seat folded position, and a rubber or polymeric interface having a thickness of at least ? of an inch and contacting the post and at least one of lower platform when lower platform is in the platform folded position, and the upper seat when the upper seat is in the seat folded position.

Abstract: A climbing assisting equipment includes a rope transmitting device, a suspension device, and a rope adjusting device. The rope transmitting device, which is suspended by the suspension device, has a displacement generated by a loading on the rope member.

Abstract: An improved ladder containment and lock device, comprising a left component, a right component, and a two piece bushing. There is a locking subassembly and a pair of coupling bolts, for coupling the components of the device. The two piece bushing has a passageway formed there through, with the passageway being angled relative to the right and left components.

Abstract: A fall protection safety device including a braking mechanism comprises a first component, a second component configured and arranged to move relative to the first component, and at least one magnet operatively connected to one of the components and another of the components being at least partially made of a non-ferromagnetic and electrically conductive material. The at least one magnet and the non-ferromagnetic and electrically conductive material creating an electromagnetic field force when the second component moves at a rate greater than a predetermined rate relative to the first component.

Abstract: A tree mounted ladder assembly provides adjustable spacing between steps to facilitate climbing into a tree. The assembly includes an elongated bar, an upper support coupled to the bar; and a lower support coupled to the bar. A connector is also coupled to the bar and a strap is coupled to the connector. The strap is configured for coupling around a tree to hold the upper support and the lower support against the tree. A plurality of steps is coupled to the bar.

Abstract: A bracket fixing for securing a safety line to a structure, has a safety line receiving portion and a fixing portion connected to the safety line receiving portion, the fixing portion having a captive mechanical fixing, arranged to engage with and secure the bracket to the structure.

Abstract: A step ladder apparatus for retention within a stake pocket comprising a frame assembly a plurality of step assemblies and an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a frame flange and a wedge member. The frame assembly is positioned within the stake pocket so that the frame flange overhangs one end of the stake pocket. The base of the wedge member is inserted into the stake pocket opposite the frame flange so that the wedge flange overhangs the stake pocket on a side opposite the frame flange. As a result, the flanges cooperate to substantially preclude downward movement of the frame assembly, and, in turn, removal of the frame assembly in a downward direction from the stake pocket.

Abstract: A jack plate ladder comprises a jack plate mount having a ladder groove, a pair of threaded ladder mount bolt holes, and a pair of threaded plate mounting holes. A ladder containment piece is coupled by a plurality of ladder mount bolts to the jack plate mount and forms a generally rectilinear ladder aperture there through the jack plate mount. A ladder has a central shaft and a pair of steps, the ladder being contained with the ladder aperture.

Abstract: A fire escape system includes at least one guide post and an escape platform slidably carried by the at least one guide post and comprising a platform plate; a pair of handlebars pivotally carried by the platform plate; a pair of guide rollers carried by the pair of handlebars, respectively, and adapted to detachably engage the at least one guide post; and a pair of brake assemblies carried by the escape platform and adapted to engage the at least one guide post.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ladder comprising a single post (1) provided with a fixing means (4) on the upper end (1S) thereof, said ladder comprising an anchoring means (9, 10) which is especially adapted to said fixing means (4) and is attached to the wall (7), and foldable supporting arms (3) which are connected to either side of the single post (1) in an articulated manner.

Abstract: A search line rescue system for use by rescue personnel to facilitate a safe search and rescue mission through an area of low to zero visibility is disclosed. The search line rescue system comprises a search rope having a first end configured to be attachable to a fixed point at an entry point, a central portion with at least one distance marker and a second end. The system further comprises a search device handle with a leading end and a trailing end wherein the search device handle is slidably coupled to the search rope. The search device handle comprises a rigid body, an automatic lock mechanism coupled to the rigid body wherein the automatic lock mechanism comprises a manual lock mechanism release, and at least one tag line attachment anchor. At least one locking directional indicator is securely coupled to the search rope at a desired location, and is configured to releasably engage with the automatic lock search mechanism of the search device handle.

Abstract: A lift-up safety grab post mechanism for rooftop hatchway curbs having a mounting bracket on a hatchway curb and having an elongate opening having a pivot bolt for upward and downward grab post movement. A lift-up grab post has a pivot opening receiving the pivot bolt and having a stop member fixed thereto. The lift-up grab post is rotationally moveable between an upstanding position and a horizontal position relative to the roof hatchway curb. The mounting bracket defines a receiver seat and further defines a stop shoulder adjacent the receiver seat that prevents rotational movement of the grab post until the grab post has been raised from said receiver seat to a position above the stop shoulder.

Abstract: A system for the evacuation of persons from a multi story structure during circumstances in which the normal escape mechanisms such as stairs and elevators are unusable for any reason. The system mounts externally of the affected structure and provides at least one evacuator upon which a person may ride in a controlled descent from an area of danger to an area of relative safety. The evacuator rides on a post and the evacuee may control the speed of his or her descent with a simple braking mechanism. A safety belt and foot rests provide a sense of security during the descent from danger.

Abstract: A handicap assister includes an upright support extending upward to a ceiling from a floor mount for a base and a rotating foot platform. The upright support can include a pole telescoped within a sleeve arranged on an axis of rotation of the platform. A hand grip region or handle is arranged at about eye level to a person sitting next to the platform so that a user can place feet on the platform and use the hand grip to rise from a seated position to a standing one, can then rotate around the upright support, and can use the hand grip to help lower back into a seated position. This allows movement between a bed and a wheelchair and between a wheelchair and a bed or toilet.

Abstract: An energy absorber, for use with a safety cable attached to a structure, comprises an elongate slide member (3) and a friction plate (5, 7) positioned adjacent to the elongate slide member. The friction plate is urged against a face of the elongate slide member by a biasing means (9, 11) to generate friction between the friction plate and the elongate slide member.

Abstract: A search line rescue system for use by rescue personnel to facilitate a safe search and rescue mission through an area of low to zero visibility is disclosed. The search line rescue system comprises a search rope having a first end configured to be attachable to a fixed point at an entry point, a central portion with at least one distance marker and a second end. The system further comprises a search device handle with a leading end and a trailing end wherein the search device handle is slidably coupled to the search rope. The search device handle comprises a rigid body, an automatic lock mechanism coupled to the rigid body wherein the automatic lock mechanism comprises a manual lock mechanism release, and at least one tag line attachment anchor. At least one locking directional indicator is securely coupled to the search rope at a desired location, and is configured to releasably engage with the automatic lock search mechanism of the search device handle.

Abstract: A system for the evacuation of persons from a multi story structure during circumstances in which the normal escape mechanisms such as stairs and elevators are unusable for any reason. The system mounts externally of the affected structure and provides at least one evacuator upon which a person may ride in a controlled descent from an area of danger to an area of relative safety. The evacuator rides on a post and the evacuee may control the speed of his or her descent with a simple braking mechanism. A safety belt and foot rests provide a sense of security during the descent from danger.

Abstract: The present invention may be used for climbing over a fence or a vertical barrier. A body may have a plurality of steps attached orthogonal to the body. The body may have a width and length to fit between two vertical bar fence elements and to position the steps generally perpendicular to a plane of a fence. A top hook may be attached to a top end of the body. A horizontal bar may be attached at a bottom end of the body generally orthogonal to the steps. A rotatable member may be rotatably attached to the body and may be spaced apart from the body by a pedestal.

Abstract: A system and method for allowing escape of many persons from a multistory building over a short period of time. The method and system include strategic placement and use of anchor points and components in conjunction with escape kits or devices so as to allow increased efficiency and safety of escape from the building for a plurality of persons in a coordinated manner, including escape of multiple escapees simultaneously or near simultaneously. The system and method include determining a strategic escape plan and configuration that incorporates consideration of building features, including features possibly interfering with escape routes, and three dimensional aspects of both building characteristics and anchor and escape kit and device features.

Abstract: A climbing stick apparatus includes a plurality of stick members, each of which includes a fastener reception portion at each stick member end and a plurality of foot-support-reception channels. A plurality of member-to-member couplers and fasteners are provided for erecting a plurality of stick members in a longitudinal arrangement. A plurality of foot support members are received in the foot-support-reception channels. The climbing stick apparatus of the invention permits rapid assembly of a climbing stick next to a tree for hunters and other outdoorsmen. When erected next to a tree the climbing stick apparatus permits the hunter to remain above ground level so that he is not noticed or smelled by game on the ft floor.

Abstract: A modular ladder for mounting to a tree or pole includes a plurality of separate sections, each of which can be separately mounted to the tree or pole. Each of the separate tree mountable sections includes an upper step, a lower step, and a rigid frame element connecting the upper and lower steps. A flexible mounting element is used to secure the frame element to the tree or pole. Each of the steps projects radially outwardly from the tree when mounted, making it easier to use the steps in climbing the tree or pole. The steps each have a slot formed therein for permitting the nesting of the separate tree mountable sections one against another. In this way, the separate sections can be compactly configured for storage and carrying. Each of the steps is large enough to accommodate the user's two feet in side-by-side relationship. In this way, the user is not required to balance on only one foot while standing on the steps. The upper and lower steps are spaced apart by about two to three feet.

Abstract: An escape mechanism for high-rise includes a safety rail and a safety facility. The safety facility is formed in a frame-like shape with an upper frame and a lower frame being constructed by two parallel short steel columns and fixedly connected together by thick steel plates. The upper frame and the lower frame are both movably and pivotally jointed by two parallel connecting rods connected with a transverse shaft, such that the upper frame and the lower frame may make relative movement in parallel with each other. In use, an escapee can be tied with a safety belt carrying a safety facility being sleeved into the safety rail, and scramble down by treading on the retractable pedals attached to the safety rail. In the event of an accidental stumble, the safety facility will be active immediately and thus prevent the escapee from further falling.

Abstract: An extension ladder and tree stand for supporting a seated or standing person on an elevated platform against a tree trunk for hunting, photography, and the like. The ladder and platform collapse into a compact size and shape for carrying by a person. The ladder is in telescoping sections. Alternate steps of the ladder slide to the middle of each telescoping section. This provides twice as many steps as sections, reducing the number of telescoping sections by half. This minimizes weight, size, complexity, and expense. When deployed, all parts remain safely assembled in all positions. Captive spring loaded pins fix the telescoping sections in extended or retracted positions, and fix the sliding steps in a middle position of each section. A folding seat on the platform has a cushion that reconfigures into a back cushion for carrying the collapsed assembly on the back of a person.

Abstract: A ladder is composed of a vertical support structure and a set of rungs. In the present invention, the vertical support structure is formed by a sailboat mast or other vertical object to be climbed. A set of step housings are attached to the mast. Each step housing contains an inclined hole sized to receive a removable rung. A set of removable rungs are provided. Each such rung has an insertion cylinder and a step. The insertion cylinder is placed in the inclined hole on one of the step housings. Interlocking mechanical features lock the removable rung in the step housing. The user can thus install a number of removable rungs in order to easily climb the sailboat mast or other vertical object.

Abstract: Scaffold ladder, that consists of a vertical support provided with rungs on the one hand, and with protruding parts or hook elements on the other hand which can co-operate with the erected scaffold elements.

Abstract: A ladder incorporating a vertical support structure and a set of removable rungs. The vertical support structure is formed by stacking a series of interlocking sticks. The sticks incorporate features allowing the removable installation of the rungs. The rungs are small and light, so that a set of such rungs may be easily carried by a user. The vertical sticks generally remain attached to the object to be climbed—such as a tree or pole. When the user wishes to climb the object, the user installs the rungs as he or she climbs. The rungs are then removed upon descent. In this manner, unauthorized climbing of the object is inhibited. Locking features are also included to prevent unauthorized access by another person having a set of removable rungs. Several different embodiments of the removable rungs are disclosed. The common feature of all these embodiments is the fact that the rungs cannot come loose from the vertical stick while they are under load.

Abstract: An extension ladder and tree stand for supporting a seated or standing person on an elevated platform against a tree trunk for hunting, photography, and the like. The ladder and platform collapse into a compact size and shape for carrying by a person. The ladder is in telescoping sections. Alternate steps of the ladder slide to the middle of each telescoping section. This provides twice as many steps as sections, reducing the number of telescoping sections by half. This minimizes weight, size, complexity, and expense. When deployed, all parts remain safely assembled in all positions. Captive spring loaded pins fix the telescoping sections in extended or retracted positions, and fix the sliding steps in a middle position of each section. A folding seat on the platform has a cushion that reconfigures into a back cushion for carrying the collapsed assembly on the back of a person.

Abstract: A ladder incorporating a vertical support structure and a set of removable rungs. The vertical support structure is formed by stacking a series of interlocking sticks. The sticks incorporate features allowing the removable installation of the rungs. The rungs are small and light, so that a set of such rungs may be easily carried by a user. The vertical sticks generally remain attached to the object to be climbed—such as a tree or pole. When the user wishes to climb the object, the user installs the rungs as he or she climbs. The rungs are then removed upon descent. In this manner, unauthorized climbing of the object is inhibited. Locking features are also included to prevent unauthorized access by another person having a set of removable rungs. Several different embodiments of the removable rungs are disclosed. The application of the invention to different types of hunting tree stands is also disclosed in detail, although the application of the invention extends far beyond hunting products.

Abstract: A ladder incorporating a vertical support structure and a set of removable rungs. The vertical support structure is formed by stacking a series of interlocking sticks. The sticks incorporate features allowing the removable installation of the rungs. The rungs are small and light, so that a set of such rungs may be easily carried by a user. The vertical sticks generally remain attached to the object to be climbed—such as a tree or pole. When the user wishes to climb the object, the user installs the rungs as he or she climbs. The rungs are then removed upon descent. In this manner, unauthorized climbing of the object is inhibited. Locking features are also included to prevent unauthorized access by another person having a set of removable rungs.

Abstract: The invention includes a personal search rope bag for use in facilitating firefighters in conducting reconnoiter and rescue operations in a burning structure. The personal search rope bag is lightweight, durable and user friendly. A method of conducting a search using the personal search rope bag is also disclosed.

Abstract: A ladder module for use in climbing trees, hunting or other purposes. The module includes a support member having a pair of support brackets mounted at the top and bottom ends of the support member. The brackets are generally V-shaped and include a number of teeth on the interior surface of the bracket that engage the tree on which the module is placed to prevent the module from slipping on the tree. The brackets also include a rectangular slot in the center of the bracket that receives a support member from a second ladder module to form a convenient nested carrying arrangement for the ladder modules. The module also includes a releasable securing arrangement for securing the module about the tree. The arrangement comprises a belt having a buckle and a pair of straps removably engagable with a fastener mounted to the support member on the side of the support member opposite the support brackets.

Abstract: A rung-foldable ladder device for attaching to an upright structure for climbing thereupon. The rung-foldable ladder device includes an elongate tubular support member; and also includes a plurality of bracket members being securely attached to the elongate tubular support member and being adapted to removably fasten with straps about an upright structure; and further includes a plurality of rung members being pivotally attached to the elongate tubular support member; and also includes a cable being attached to the rung members for pivoting the rung members against the elongate tubular support member.

Abstract: A mast ladder for going up the mast of a sailing craft having a mast with a sail slide extending along the length of the mast including a halyard slide, a plurality of connecting rods, a top step and a plurality of universal steps. The mast ladder is raised by engaging the top step with the sail slide and attaching a connecting rod to the lower end of the top step and raising the top step. The top step, each universal step and halyard slide, engage the sail slide keeping the mast ladder against the mast and providing support to each step. As the mast ladder is raised the top step has a connecting rod attached to the lower end of the top step and to the first universal step at its left or right hand position, which are alternated with a connecting rod between each universal step with the halyard slide connected upside down to the last universal step allowing the mast ladder to rest on the halyard slide so that the work on the craft may be completed.

Abstract: A system for sportsmen when hunting at an elevated location in a tree without harming the supporting tree including a base plates The base plate has an interior face positioned in contact with the exterior surface of a supporting tree and an exterior exposed face. The base plate has laterally spaced apertures adjacent to its edges. A threaded machine bolt has a diameter over the majority of its length and has an interior edge secured to the exterior surface of the base plate and an enlarged cylindrical exterior end. A coupling assembly is formed of two sections. Each section has an interior link permanently secured to an associated aperture in the base plate and has free ends. A locking assembly removably couples the base plate-coupling assembly to a tree. A support assembly has a downwardly extending auxiliary plate positionable over the base plate with an opening there through.

Abstract: A roofer's step stilt for providing an adjustably extendable stilt for bracing on a toe hold structure on a roof top to allow a roofer to step thereon to reach higher up locations without requiring additional scaffolding to be constructed. The roofer's step stilt includes a tubular elongate top and bottom members each having upper and lower ends and a longitudinal axis extending between the respective upper and lower ends. The lower end of the top member telescopically receives the upper end of the bottom member into the top member. An upper footrest plate is coupled to the upper end of the top member. A lower footrest plate is outwardly extended from the top member adjacent the lower end of the top member.

Abstract: A mast ladder for going up the mast of a sailing craft having a mast with a sail slide extending along the length of the mast including a halyard slide, a plurality of connecting rods, a top step and a plurality of universal steps. The mast ladder is assembled by attaching an end of the halyard to the upper end of the halyard slide to raise the mast ladder up the mast. The halyard slide, the top step and each universal step engage the sail slide keeping the mast ladder against the mast and providing support to each step. As the mast ladder is raised, the halyard slide has a connecting rod attached at the lower end and the connecting rod is attached to the top step at the upper end and a subsequent connecting rod is attached to the lower end of the top step and to the first universal step at its left or right hand position, which are alternated as the mast ladder is raised to the desired height necessary to complete the work on the craft.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a tubular escape system for buildings consisting of a combination of a platform, multiple uprights located around the perimeter of the platform to support the railings, a door connecting the building interior on that floor with each platform, a opening in each platform measuring 1.00 meter in diameter, two tubes that perpendicularly cross each platform and are connected to a water tank that can manually or automatically fill the tubes with water, an extension tube that remains fixed and inserted within the tube while the escape is not in use, a bolt that passes through the extension tube and so fixes it inside the extension tube, a sponge base to be found on each platform at the bottom of the section of tube on that platform, a cover attached to the base of the extension tube, an auxiliary ladder attached to the platform railings, an extension inside the tube that prevents anybody from entering by means of the opening on the lower platform.