Petzl Marketing Director Dave Hugar demonstrates the EXO AP at FDIC International 2016.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT (April 21, 2016) – Petzl today revealed the EXO AP at FDIC International 2016. Featuring a new “anti-panic” function, the lighter and more compact EXO AP is an upgraded version of the EXO personal escape system first launched in 2006.
“The EXO has already proven itself to be a viable solution both on the fireground and in tactical environments,” said Dave Hugar, marketing director for Petzl. “We’re proud to be able to improve on that by introducing the new EXO AP. By adding an anti-panic feature to the device we hope to set a new standard for personal escape systems.”
In the wake of a terrible tragedy that occurred in New York City in January 2005, the FDNY worked closely with Petzl’s research and development team to create a personal escape system capable of limiting the chances of such accidents from ever happening again. The 2006 EXO took the fire rescue industry by storm and landed a Time magazine Best Invention of 2006 award thanks to its patented lever mechanism that allowed users to control their speed of descent.
The new EXO AP aims to better control panic-fueled escapes with an anti-panic function that engages automatically if the user’s adrenaline spikes and he or she yanks too hard on the handle. The descent will stop automatically and give the firefighter a moment to collect him or herself before the handle is re-engaged and the descent can continue in a controlled manner.
The EXO AP descender and its Am’D “H” frame connector with CAPTIV retainer bar allows users to quickly move horizontally, climb through a window and control and stop a descent. The 50 ft. Technora escape rope resists abrasion and high temperatures. The Nomex carry bag attaches the system directly to the harness.
The EXO AP costs $489.95 and will be available in July 2016. For more information, please visit www.petzl.com
Petzl®
For over 40 years, Petzl has developed innovative tools and techniques used by those who work and play in the vertical world. Today, the Petzl brand is closely associated with adventure, exploration, rescue, and many notable exploits in the worlds of rock climbing, caving, and alpinism. In the professional market, Petzl is a world leader in work at height, fire and rescue, and tactical equipment and techniques. A family-owned business, Petzl is committed not only to quality and innovation, but also to giving back to the communities that have made us so successful. For more information, visit www.petzl.com.
