A key benefit of this Evacuation Overlay is that it removes the need for a patient transfer in the event of an emergency that requires the building to be vacated.It is normally fitted above a conventional mattress and it holds itself in place by means of flaps which tuck under the mattress. In the event of an emergency, these flaps can be taken out and passed over the top so that the user is then cocooned safely inside. The overlay is then ready to be used as an escape system. It has strong webbing straps that enable two helpers to guide it safely down stairs and, because it has no rigid internal structure, the overlay can pass down narrow stairways and through doorways that would normally be too tight for a standard evacuation chair. Inside, the user is protected by 90mm of padded material, which distributes pressure and absorbs bumps. The base is made from hard wearing PVC, which slides easily on stairs, carpet and other surfaces.