Abstract: A descent control device is provided for lowering a person, animal or object from a first position of height to a second position substantially lower, especially as during escape from fire. The device comprises an assembly of three interacting parts including a strap, a brake block, and a friction ring. The strap, brake block, and friction ring interact and cooperate causing frictional engagement among themselves when the device is assembled. The resulting friction is used to control the descent from the place of height. The device may be utilized in two modes of operation: in the first, a descender utilizes the brake block and friction ring to slide downward upon the substantially stationary strap; in the second, the strap is used to lower a person, animal or object by attaching same to one end of the strap and utilizing the brake block and friction ring as a brake to control the lowering of the strap.