emergency ladder
nounUK /ɪˈmɜː.dʒən.si ˈlæd.ər/
US /ɪˈmɝː.dʒən.si ˈlæd.ɚ/
A special ladder you use to get out of a building when there is a fire or other danger.
The family climbed down the emergency ladder when the fire alarm rang.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A ladder kept on a boat or ship for use if people must leave quickly.
The sailors lowered the emergency ladder into the lifeboat.
3. A folding ladder stored under a window or on a balcony for quick escape.
We keep a small emergency ladder on our balcony just in case.
4. Any ladder set up temporarily to help people get out of a dangerous place.
Rescue workers used an emergency ladder to reach the trapped hikers.