The 8 Best Fire Escape Ladders of 2024

Fire escape ladders are designed to provide an alternative exit from an above-ground window in the event of a house fire. If the usual exit route is blocked by flames or smoke, a ladder can be deployed quickly so you can reach the ground safely.

“You may have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out,” says Steve Jensen of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. Therefore, you need a fire escape ladder that’s easy to grab, set up, and use.

You should also pick a ladder constructed of heat-ready, durable materials. “The ladder should follow the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) F2175 standards,” says Thaddeus Harrington, a spokesperson for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (also known as the CPSC).

The ASTM sets global product standards to ensure safe and effective use. There are requirements for portable and permanent emergency escape ladders such as static load, rung size, heat deflection temperature, and stress relief requirements.¹

With Jensen and Harrington’s advice, we researched the top fire escape ladders available, choosing products based on sturdiness, materials, and ease of setup and use.

What length fire escape ladder do I need?
House Size	Ladder Length
2-Story	13 Feet
3-Story	25 Feet

According to Harrington, these ladder lengths are sufficient for multi-story homes.

Best Overall

x-it products X-IT Emergency Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

View on X-itproducts.com

What We Like

• 60-day guarantee
• Lifetime replacement policy
• Designed for portable or permanent use

What We Don’t Like

• Tapered rope rails

The best fire escape ladder should be easy to use with a quality build, and the X-IT Emergency Fire Escape Ladder meets these requirements. Plus, it’s designed to fit all windows. It’s available in various lengths to accommodate windows on the second to sixth story of a home or building.

Out of the box, it’s a portable version that hooks over the window sill but you can also order a mounting kit to make it a permanent fire escape ladder. The tangle-free ladder folds up to about the size of a shoe box and can be stored in a nylon bag.

Best of all, it’s lightweight at just under 6 pounds and strong, with a weight capacity of 1,000 pounds. It’s easy for anyone to use, including a child, but you can (and should) practice setting up and using the ladder with children.

The fact that this X-IT model is reusable means you don’t have to buy an extra one just to hold a practice session, which is what some other manufacturers recommend. We also love that a 15-year warranty backs the ladder, along with a lifetime replacement guarantee. Use it in a documented emergency, and the company will replace it with a new one.

We wish the ladder rails weren’t tapered, as it may be a tripping concern for younger and older users; however, this only reinforces the need to practice using it.

All these perks come with a slight price premium; this ladder’s starting cost is $100, which is more than almost all of the other picks on our list. At the same time, its reusable design and lifetime replacement guarantee make it a worthwhile investment.

_{Length: 13 feet to 53 feet | Material: Nylon, aluminum | Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds | Warranty: 15 years | Ladder Weight: 5.95 pounds}

Tips From Our Experts

There are several important factors to consider before finding the best fire escape ladder for your situation. Thaddeus Harrington, a spokesperson for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, advises homeowners to consider questions like:

• Does the ladder fit in the window it is to be used in?
• Can the user handle the weight of the ladder?
• Can the ladder be reused after use or will it need to be replaced?

Best Value

First Alert EL52 Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

$94$55 at Amazon | $58 at Target | $55 at Lowe’s

What We Like

• Anti-slip rungs
• Suitable for practice use
• Rung stabilizers for easier descent

What We Don’t Like

• Requires specific window dimensions
• No storage bag

A budget-friendly fire escape ladder prioritizes safety without requiring a big spend—this one is half the price of our best overall. The First Alert Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder is constructed of durable materials you can rely on during emergencies.

The 14-foot-long ladder has alloy steel steps and stabilizers to keep the ladder steady as you descend. The rungs may not feel as sturdy due to their slim design—they only measure 4.25 inches deep—but they’ve been rated to hold 375 pounds.

Before buying this fire escape ladder, we recommend you take a few basic measurements of the window you plan to use it in. The bracket for this fire escape ladder requires a 6- to 10-inch window sill width. It should also be used in a window that measures at least 20 inches wide and 32 inches high.

The fire escape ladder weighs 12.8 pounds, making it slightly heavier than almost all our other options. Be sure to test the fit of the bracket in the window and that family members know how to install and use the ladder. The product manual includes instructions on proper storage after a practice session, so you won’t need to replace this product if you give it a test run.

Unfortunately, there’s no storage bag, but you can repack the ladder in its cardboard box. It’s worth noting that the 6-year manufacturer’s warranty tops the 5-year warranty of another affordable and popular model on our list, our best budget option, the Kidde Fire Escape Ladder.

_{Length: 14 feet | Material: Steel, nylon | Weight Capacity: 1,125 pounds | Warranty: 6 years | Ladder Weight: 12.8 pounds}

Best Budget

Kidde Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Home Depot

$64$41 at Amazon | $43 at Walmart | $61 at Wayfair

What We Like

• Constructed of flame-resistant materials
• Tangle-free design for faster set-up
• 12-inch wide steel steps

What We Don’t Like

• Intended for single use only
• Slightly lower total weight capacity

The Kidde 2-Story Fire Escape Ladder earns high marks for being lightweight, easy to deploy, and affordable. Measuring 13 feet long, this version is designed for use in a second-story window and is compatible with hung and casement windows, with or without a prominent sill. The metal bracket of this fire escape ladder fits in windows that are at least 16 inches wide.

This fire escape ladder only weighs 7.7 pounds, making it light enough for children or anyone with limited strength and mobility to lift and install. Once the bracket is positioned in the window, a Velcro strap with printed instructions directs you on the simple, easy way to unfurl the ladder.

The tangle-free design ensures fast, easy deployment. However, this feature also means that this Kidde fire escape ladder is only intended for one-time use. If you need to practice setting up and descending the ladder, then you will need to purchase more than one ladder.

Other features that make this ladder a popular pick include the 12-inch wide zinc-plated steel steps, rated for 700 pounds of weight. Compared to rope rungs, the wider steel rungs provide plenty of room to place your feet and increase the stable, sturdy feeling of this fire escape ladder.

In total, this fire escape ladder has a 1,000-pound weight rating. It’s slightly lower than the total weight capacity of some other models on our list, but only by a few hundred pounds.

_{Length: 13 feet | Material: Zinc-plated steel, nylon | Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds total; 700 pounds per step | Warranty: 5 years | Ladder Weight: 7.7 pounds}

Best Permanent

ISOP 16ft Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

$113 at Amazon

What We Like

• Carabiners for easy attaching
• Can be used multiple times 
• Reflective surfaces for better visibility in the dark

What We Don’t Like

• Must install lag bolts or buy window hooks
• No stabilizers for ladder rungs

For a permanent fire escape ladder, consider this strong and durable version from Isop. Available in various lengths ranging from 8 to 32 feet, this ladder is a reliable way to safely exit an upper-story window in the event of a fire. Plus, this ladder has reflective materials to increase its visibility in low-light conditions.

Unlike single-use versions, this permanent fire escape ladder can be reused, making it ideal for families who want to hold practice sessions on properly descending the ladder. 

The 16-foot ISOP Fire Escape Rope Ladder is made of thick rope and has an impressive weight capacity of 2,000 pounds; more than one family member can use the ladder at once. It includes two heavy-duty carabiners that are meant to be anchored to eye bolts installed in wall studs, but you can also purchase window hooks if you want to secure the ladder using that method. 

The advantage of the carabiners is the ability to leave the ladder installed and ready to go; you can leave the ladder hooked into place but neatly bundled inside the storage bag. If an emergency arises, the ladder simply needs to be tossed out the window. Since it weighs less than 9 pounds, it’s a task most children easily complete.

The biggest downside to this permanent fire escape ladder is the lack of stabilizers for the resin-covered rungs. The swaying of the ladder may make it harder to descend, especially for older individuals. 

Overall, this fire escape ladder is an easy-to-use option. If you live in an apartment, you can purchase several ladders and connect them using the carabiners to ensure you have enough ladder length to reach the ground. 

_{Length: 8 feet to 32 feet | Material: Nylon rope, resin rungs | Weight Capacity: 2,000 pounds | Warranty: Not listed | Ladder Weight: 8.8 pounds}

Best 2-Story

Hausse Retractable 2 Story Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

$84$70 at Amazon

What We Like

• Easy to deploy
• Stabilizers for each ladder rung
• Compact bracket saves space

What We Don’t Like

• May leave marks on home’s exterior
• Hard to repackage

According to Harrington, if you’re looking for a ladder for a second-story window, you need one that’s at least 13 feet to exit safely. With that in mind, we recommend the Hausse Retractable 2-Story Fire Escape Ladder.

It meets the recommended length of 13 feet and has slip-resistant aluminum rungs with stabilizing feet to help you descend safely. It’s rated to hold up to 1,000 pounds of weight, and the manufacturer states it can support up to 3 people at once. 

We also like this 2-story fire escape ladder’s folding bracket. It has a pivot point and retractable arms to save space when stored. It also comes packed in a canvas storage bag that is easy to identify with its bright red color. Technically this ladder is single-use; it should be replaced after emergency use. However, you may decide to unpack it for practice.

Just be forewarned: Packing it back up in a way that it fits neatly inside the canvas storage bag can be challenging. The manufacturer also cautions that deploying the ladder can leave marks on the windowsill or exterior of your home.

_{Length: 13 feet | Material: Aluminum, nylon | Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds | Warranty: Not listed | Ladder Weight: 11.31 pounds}

Best 3-Story

ISOP 3-Story Fire Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

$189 at Amazon | View on Isopllc.com

What We Like

• Includes stabilizers for each ladder rung
• Constructed of durable nylon webbing
• Installs with window hooks or carabiners
• Reusable

What We Don’t Like

• Storage bag could be bigger

If you need a safe way to exit third-floor bedrooms or living spaces, the CPSC recommends a 25-foot ladder like this ISOP Fire Escape Ladder.

One of its standout features is the nylon webbing that supports 1,200 pounds of weight. It’s one continuous length of nylon webbing, which reduces the chance of fraying or breakage by eliminating weak spots where two pieces of nylon are sewn together. Aluminum rungs with a non-slip pattern give you a sturdy spot to place your feet as you descend the ladder.

You have two options for securely attaching this 3-story fire escape ladder. You can use the included window hooks or clip the heavy-duty carabiners to install eye bolts. Alternatively, you can clip the carabiners to another fixed point, like a balcony railing. However, you should ensure any anchor point you pick is strong enough to support the weight of the ladder while in use.

The only significant drawback of this 3-story fire escape ladder is that it’s more expensive than all other options on this list. It’s reusable, meaning you can set this one up and hold practice sessions so everyone feels comfortable setting up and using the ladder.

_{Length: 25 feet | Material: Nylon, aluminum | Weight Capacity: 1,200 pounds | Warranty: Not listed | Ladder Weight: 13 pounds}

Best for Basement

Adjust-A-Grate 3-Step Aluminum Window Well Escape Ladder

PHOTO: Amazon

$83$75 at Amazon| $73 at Home Depot| $55 at Lowe’s

What We Like

• Rust-free material
• Easy installation
• Permanent installation bolts included

What We Don’t Like

• Ladder rungs are uncomfortable without shoes on
• Window wells deeper than 5-foot require an extension

Most fire escape ladders are designed to help occupants safely descend from an upper story but it’s also important to consider an escape route from the basement of your home. If flames or smoke block other exit points, a window well escape ladder is vital—and frequently required by local building code.

This version from Adjust-A-Grate is a perfect fit for basements with a 4- to 5-foot window well. It only requires six bolts for installation and supports up to 300 pounds.

The Adjust-A-Grate 3-Step Aluminum Window Well Escape Ladder is constructed from aluminum, so it won’t rust despite being exposed to the elements. It has just three steps to allow the user to quickly move from the lower level of your home to ground level.

However, it should be noted that the thin metal rungs may be uncomfortable if the user isn’t wearing shoes, which may be the case in the event of an emergency evacuation. Even so, the fact that the ladder is sturdy and easy to ascend makes it a great choice.

_{Length: 4 feet | Material: Aluminum | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Warranty: 10 years | Ladder Weight: 3.3 pounds}

Best for Babies and Pets

ISOP Fire Evacuation Device for Kids or Pets

PHOTO: Amazon

$59 at Amazon

What We Like

• Two sizes available 
• Includes 50 feet of rope
• Backpack-style straps allow you to wear bag

What We Don’t Like

• Lack of support on the sides and bottom
• Ventilation openings may be too large for some pets

When planning an escape route for your household, don’t overlook babies or pets that aren’t able to use a fire escape ladder. The Isop Fire Evacuation Device holds up to 55 pounds and enables you to carry the bag down as a backpack or lower it to the ground using the 50 feet of included rope. 

Consider the stated dimensions and weight capacity when deciding if this is the right fire escape solution for your young child or pet. The medium-size bag is 19 x 18 x 10 inches and holds up to 55 pounds. The large-size bag is 28 x 21 x 14 and holds up to 100 pounds.

Keep in mind the sides and bottom of the bag are not rigid; the manufacturer recommends putting a pillow in the bottom to provide support and cushion the landing when the bag touches the ground. 

The lack of support along the sides of the bag may make this bag more challenging to use. However, the versatility of using this evacuation device as a backpack or transport bucket makes it an excellent choice in an emergency. 

_{Length: Not applicable | Material: Nylon | Weight Capacity: 55 pounds (medium); 100 pounds (large) | Warranty: Not listed | Ladder Weight: 2 pounds}

Final Verdict

For most homes, the best fire escape ladder is the X-IT Emergency Fire Escape Ladder. It’s available in lengths that accommodate two- to six-story windows and stands out for being easy to use, reliable, and reusable. It’s backed by a 15-year warranty and an impressive replacement policy if you ever need to use it. If you don’t mind a single-use fire escape ladder, consider the highly-rated and less expensive Kidde 2-Story Fire Escape Ladder (our best budget pick). It has a tangle-free design and wide steel steps for solid footing as you descend the ladder. 

When Buying a Fire Escape Ladder, Look for

A Length and Weight Capacity That Suits Your Home

Choose the length of your fire escape ladder based on the window you plan to use it in. “A 2-story property needs a 13-foot ladder, a 3-story property needs a 25-foot ladder, etc. so the ladder can reach the ground during an escape,” says Thaddeus Harrington, Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

A longer-than-necessary fire escape ladder is better than one that is too short, but the longer the ladder is, the more it will weigh, which may be a challenge for younger or older users. A longer ladder also means it is more challenging to store, based on the added ladder rungs. 

Most fire escape ladders have a weight rating of at least 375 pounds, which is usually suitable for at least one or two individuals to descend the ladder simultaneously. For extra assurance, some ladders hold 1,000 pounds of weight or more.

All of the ladders on our list, except the Adjust-A-Grate 3-Step Aluminum Window Well Escape Ladder (best for basements) and the Isop Fire Evacuation Device for Kids or Pets (best for babies and pets), can support over 1,000 pounds. The two picks mentioned are specialized uses (best for basements and best for babies and pets) and therefore support less weight.

Keep in mind that the weight capacity of some fire escape ladders is expressed as the load-bearing capacity of a single step (usually around 375 pounds) or as the total weight capacity for the ladder. Some manufacturers provide both specifications. 

Durable, Heat-Resistant Materials

Unlike step ladders, typically made of fiberglass or wood, a fire escape ladder is usually made of lightweight, foldable materials. You’ll find that most versions are made with nylon webbing or rope, with aluminum or resin rungs.

This combo means the ladder is light and compact when stored, but strong and durable during use. For example, the X-IT Emergency Fire Escape Ladder (our best overall pick), weighs less than 6 pounds but has been tested to hold 1,000 pounds.

Safety-Enhancing Details

When used properly, a fire escape ladder is a safety device. To ensure that it doesn’t become a hazard, you should consider the weight capacity or load rating for the ladder and choose one that will support the weight of each individual in your home.

Some fire escape ladders, like the ISOP 16ft Fire Escape Ladder (best permanent), support enough weight that multiple people can descend the ladder at once. This is a safer choice for a room with more than one occupant, like a bedroom shared by two children. Other safety features to consider include non-slip steps or rungs and fire-resistant materials. 

“A fire escape ladder is intended to supplement, not replace, the more important fire protection principles,” says Harrington. Safety is a bigger picture than simply having a fire escape ladder handy. You should also take the following precautions:

• Have fire extinguishers in your home.
• Place working smoke detectors on every level of the house outside the sleeping areas and inside the bedrooms.
• Develop a fire escape plan for your family with two ways out of each room and a meeting place outside. 
• Keep bedroom doors closed. During a fire, closed bedroom doors can slow the spread and allow extra moments to get to safety.

A Simple, Quick Setup Process

To be effective in an emergency, a fire escape ladder shouldn’t be too heavy or too complicated to deploy. When evaluating the ease of use of a fire escape ladder, consider how heavy the ladder is. Will the person using it be able to lift the ladder to the window sill and deploy the rungs?

A tangle-free design, like what you’ll find on the Kidde 2-Story Fire Escape Ladder (our best budget pick), helps to ensure that the rungs correctly unfold, enabling you to safely step on each rung. 

You should also look at the set-up requirements. Some portable fire escape ladders have hooks that quickly fit over a window sill, while others attach to a fixed endpoint (usually an eye bolt) using carabiners. The bottom line is to make sure that the fire escape ladder you pick is easy enough to be used by everyone in the home. 

Why Trust The Spruce?

Erica Puisis is a product researcher and writer with years of experience testing and writing about home products and appliances. When researching the best fire escape ladders, she considered options for two- and three-story homes, along with versions that are available in a longer length or can be combined to fit your situation. Priority was given to products that have features that make the fire escape ladder sturdier or easier to use, such as stabilizers for the ladder rungs or a tangle-free tread design. She also took into account whether the ladder could be reused after a practice session.