life net

noun

1. a strong net or the like held by firefighters or others to catch persons jumping from a burning building.

Word History and Origins

Origin of life net¹

An Americanism dating back to 1905–10

Example Sentences

Firefighters were able to enjoy the amenities that the modern building provided, including a drill tower that allowed them to train with a life net, and lowering and raising hoses and ladders.

From Washington Times

They may all take hold of the edges of the blanket and extend it as firemen do the life net.

From Project Gutenberg

All fire departments should have a life net; dropping into a life-net is not so hazardous as sliding down a rope when one is ignorant of the proper way to do it.

From Project Gutenberg

Someone set fire to the gasoline-soaked frame before the life net was ready.

From Time Magazine Archive

A daring young man, he dived for an A.M.G. life net, later sported a U.S. uniform while his old pals were marched off to jail.

From Time Magazine Archive

Related Words

• life jacket
• life vest