Emergencies on the road can happen in an instant, and knowing how to react quickly can mean the difference between life and death. One of the most terrifying scenarios is being trapped in a sinking car. In this situation, every second counts. Equipping yourself with the right knowledge and tools is crucial for survival to escape a sinking car. Typically, you will have only 30 to 90 seconds to exit the vehicle before it is fully submerged in water.
Here’s how to safely escape a sinking car:
Do not wait for the car to be completely submerged to take action and do not touch your phone! As much as you can, try to not panic and stay calm.
Step 1: Seatbelts off or cut
First, unbuckle the seat belt. If it is stuck or jammed, use the resqme® seatbelt cutter to cut it. Remove the blade protector (plastic clip) and cut the seat belt at a 45-degree angle for a cut in one go.
Step 2: Windows open or break
Try to lower the side window. If that fails, because there is no manual handle and if the electrical system gives out, use the resqme® tool to break the car’s side windows. Press the head of the tool (black cylindrical part) on one of the four corners of the window. This will shatter it and provide a way out. The resqme® is spring-loaded allowing it to be used many times, and works effectively underwater. Be aware that the resqme® only works on TEMPERED glass (side windows, some roof and back windows) as opposed to LAMINATED glass (windshield) . A small decal in the lower corner of the window will show the type of glass your car windows are made of. If water fills the car’s interior from submersion, using a classic car escape hammer or other non-spring-loaded tools to generate sufficient force against the water to break the window becomes challenging.
Step 3: Out through the window, Children First
Once the window is open or broken, focus on getting out. If there are kids in the car, undo their restraints. Prioritize helping the oldest child first so they can assist the younger ones. Exit through the window and swim to safety or the nearest structure to hold onto until rescuers come. If the car is not fully submerged underwater yet, you can climb onto the roof and wait for help. As much as possible, try to stay calm and avoid panicking. This can impair your judgment and hinder your ability to escape.
Conclusion
With more than 400 deaths a year, it’s essential for your safety and the safety of your passengers to be prepared and know what to do in a car submersion scenario. Additionally, keeping a resqme® in accessible spots in the car can help for a fast escape when your vehicle is sinking. Following these steps and staying calm under pressure can increase your chances of survival.
Share this information with your loved ones, as it could save lives in an emergency.
Remember the acronym SWOC: Seatbelt, Window, Out, Children first, in the case of a car sinking emergency.
Stay safe on the roads!
