Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of a tailgate saver system. In one nonlimiting example embodiment, the tailgate saver includes a crossbar, a pair of supports connected to the crossbar, a tightening mechanism attached to the crossbar, and a strap connected to the tightening mechanism. The crossbar may be configured to extend across a width of a bed of a pickup truck and the pair of supports may be configured to insert into, and be held by, the pickup truck's stake pockets. When the pair of supports are inserted in the stake pockets of the bed of the pickup truck the crossbar prevents elongated objects hauled in the bed of the pickup truck from resting on the tailgate thereby allowing the tailgate to be opened and closed.

Abstract: A step extension assembly for a tree stand includes a ladder having rungs supported by at least one ladder rail. A bracket frame including attachment portions is attached to the at least one ladder rail. A step base is attached to the bracket frame. The step base includes a stepping surface for supporting a foot of a user. The step base is positioned laterally outboard relative to the at least one ladder rail providing an extended support for a user when entering and exiting the tree stand.

Abstract: A tailgate of a type used in pickup trucks and other vehicles, and a method of operating such a tailgate. The tailgate includes a front/interior side, an oppositely-disposed rear/exterior side, lateral ends, and hinges disposed at the lateral ends and configured for pivotably coupling the tailgate to a vehicle. The tailgate further includes at least a first seat integrated into the tailgate between the front/interior side, the rear/exterior side, and the lateral ends. The seat comprises a seat back defined by a first rotatable portion of the front/interior side, and a seat cushion that is recessed into an interior region of the tailgate between the front/interior and rear/exterior sides. The seat cushion is exposed by rotating the seat back from a closed position in which the seat back is aligned with the front/interior side to an open position in which the seat back is deployed away from the front/interior side.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing access to the exterior of a building in proximity to an opening, such as a window or door opening, in a wall of the building. Access is provided by a platform that is supported by brackets from vertical members fastened to the interior of the building. The platform may be passed from the interior of a building to the exterior of the building through an opening in the building. The apparatus may be assembled in, and installed from, the interior of a building.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing access to the exterior of a building in proximity to an opening, such as a window or door opening, in a wall of the building. Access is provided by a platform that is supported by brackets from vertical members fastened to the interior of the building. The platform may be passed from the interior of a building to the exterior of the building through an opening in the building. The apparatus may be assembled in, and installed from, the interior of a building.

Abstract: The invention relates to an urban emergency escape method and apparatus for use in escaping from high-rise buildings. The method sets forth a series steps that allows one to successfully evacuate a high-rise building that is filled with smoke due a fire or the elevator system is not working due to an explosion or a terrorist attack of some kind. The apparatus utilized comprises a carry-on bag with a handle and wheels for easy mobility and a zippered cover that encloses a plurality of interconnected rope sections, a descent controller, a plurality of anchoring straps, at least one harness, D-rings and a glass breaking tool. After donning the harness and breaking the window to allow exit, the anchoring straps are secured to several different structural components within the room and tied to a first end of a rope segment. The free end of the rope segment is pre-fed through the descent controller, the user steps out the broken window and allows evacuee to descend by manipulating the descent controller.

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 window mounted temporary working platform which is totally assembled by one user from inside the window being repaired, maintained, or washed. The device provides a working platform at an elevation below the outer window sill with two side rails, an outer rail and a working platform which is supported without permanent installation on the building being serviced. The device is adjustable in width to accommodate a wide variety of window widths and is configured to provide for window with outer storm windows and window installation where the area below the inner sill is unavailable for platform support or connection due to of a heater or radiator.

Abstract: A collapsible fire escape for erection within a building adjacent a window therein, comprising sets of upper and lower joists arranged spatially apart from one another and mounted pivotally, respectively to upper and lower end portions of elongated upright angle irons to form a rectangular framework, a floor mounted over the lower joists, a first set of wall covers mounted to and between the outer surfaces of the upright angle irons, a second set of wall covers removably insertable between the remaining open spaces of the upright angle irons, foldable brace sections mounted crosswise and pivotally to the connecting points of joists and upright angle irons, a continuous hinge mounted along one of the upright angle irons extending into a plate which terminates in hooks, a plate provided with tubular projections mounted to the outside wall of the building adjacent the window for receiving the hooks and the housing capable of being swung outside through the window.