Abstract: An improved energy absorption device adapted to dissipate energy and thereby protect impact prone surfaces against damage is disclosed, characterized by use of a base member formed to be affixed to the surface to be protected, an impact/facia member pivotally mounted to the base member, and a spring member extensible between the base member and impact/facia member for disposing the impact/facia member in a stowed and/or operable orientation. The various members cooperate with one another to normally maintain the impact/facia member in a stowed orientation by way of an over center latching mechanism and permit rapid deployment of the impact/facia member into an operative position merely by pivoting the impact/facia member outwardly away from the base member.