The invention presents devices for controlled descent from buildings. Such a device includes a housing having a primary spool about which a cord is wound, a payload coupler for attaching a harness assembly to the housing, and an unwind control assembly for controlling the rate of exit of the cord from the housing. An inventive device kit may include a convertible storage unit used to protectively store a device and which, upon deployment, may be used as a protective helmet. In using an inventive device, a user attaches the device to a fixture in a building, dons a harness and the converted helmet, attaches the device to the harness, and exits the building from a window or roof.