Abstract: A device for facilitating a controlled descent of a body, the device comprising a rotatable reel around which at least a portion of a cable is wound, a first end of the cable secured to the reel and a second end or the cable free; a friction drum mounted coaxially around the reel, the cable, upon leaving the reel wound at least partially around the drum; a carrier on which the reel and the drum are mounted; wherein the reel is provided with braking means for braking rotational motion of the reel and for balancing descending speed or the body.