Abstract: An emergency escape system for use within a multi-story building includes a vertical horizontal balconies each having an open area defining resulting open areas which, in turn, define a vertical column through the balconies. The system further includes a rigid vertical channel structure within each of the vertical columns, each of the channel structures having vertical guides. The system also includes an escape module having a rigid platform proportioned to substantially fill each of the open areas of each balcony, the module including an assembly for slidable engagement with the vertical guides of each vertical channel. The system also includes springs secured within the vertical guides which are in compressible abutment with the slidable engagement assemblies of the escape module. The system also includes an assembly for selectable release of the slidable engagement assembly of the escape module from each of the balconies and into compressive contact with the springs.