Abstract: A load lowering or rescue device for lowering a load or person from an elevated location, has a drum rotatably mounted on a frame. One end of a rope or cable is secured at the elevated location. The other end of the rope or cable is secured to the drum and a portion of the rope or cable is wound around the drum. A spring biased drum brake cooperates with the drum for controlling the lowering speed or for stopping the drum rotation. First and second brake action control members permit controlling the brake action in opposite directions, for example, one control member permits reducing the brake force for accelerating the lowering speed, while the other control member permits selectively increasing the brake force and stopping the lowering.