bit-tech Shopping: Kidde 3 Story Fire Escape Ladder Quick Emergency Exit

Rating: 8

Time with product: 2

Strengths: Seems sturdy and well built.

Weaknesses: Hope never to find out.

Summary: This is basically for peace of mind. If we were ever to be trapped on the third floor for any reason, we could safely climb down with this ladder. That being said, there's not much more to say about it as the box tells you it is meant for one time use only, meaning the only time you will use it is in case of an emergency. Being that Kidde is well known and recommended brand of fire safety products, I feel confident that it will work as advertised.

Rating: 8

Time with product: 4 Days

Strengths: Appears easy to use in case of an actual fire.

Weaknesses: None known

Summary: The manufactuer states that this is a "one time use" ladder. Thus, it is not possible to test the ladder and report on it. I chose this one because of the Kidde brand name and one I felt that my young children could operate in case we were to ever need it.

Rating: 6

Time with product: 5 Days

Strengths: Is nice and compact and "looks" easy to use

Weaknesses: Says on the box that it is for one time use only.

Summary: The problem with this product being for "one time use" is that you can't have a dry run emergency to practice with the family before a real one happens. I'm sure that they just put "one time use" on the box to cover their tails, but it would be nice to be able to use it once a year to practice with the kids. But it is better than having no way to get down.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 2 Days

Strengths: Compact and simple to use

Weaknesses:

Summary: This ladder is easy to use and easy to store. Fits under a bed and durable enough for a large person to use. I hope it's never needed but there is peace of mind in knowing it is there.