Abstract: An escape device having a tubular escape chute with upper and lower ends. At least one zipper extends longitudinally at least along a portion of the chute in order to provide for entry into or exit out of the chute at different elevations. The chute has a friction-creating material which extends through a major portion of the chute's longitudinal extent thereby permitting an individual descending in the chute and contacting the panel to have his or her rate of descent retarded. The inner chute may have inner pleats resiliently maintained by an elastic member. The chute may consist of an inner tube and an outer tube.