Ten Tips for Escaping A Sinking Car

Escaping a sinking car is an extremely stressful and potentially life-threatening situation. Understanding and practicing the right steps can significantly increase your chances of survival. Here are ten tips for escaping a sinking car, with a detailed discussion of each step.

1. Stay Calm

Discussion: Panic can cloud your judgment and cause you to waste precious time. Staying calm is crucial for thinking clearly and executing the necessary steps for escape. Take a few deep breaths to steady yourself and focus on the immediate actions you need to take. Remember, you have a few moments before the car becomes fully submerged, so use this time wisely.

2. Unbuckle Your Seatbelt

Discussion: As soon as the car hits the water, unbuckle your seatbelt. This is your first step toward freeing yourself from the vehicle. In the chaos of the situation, you might forget this crucial step, but it's essential for your mobility. If you have passengers, instruct them to unbuckle their seatbelts as well. For children in car seats, quickly release them.

3. Open or Break a Window

Discussion: Electric windows may continue to function for a brief period after the car enters the water. Try to roll them down immediately. If the windows do not work, you will need to break them. Keep a window-breaking tool in your car, such as a spring-loaded center punch or a heavy-duty glass breaker, to make this easier. Aim for the corners of the window, as they are typically the weakest points.

4. Help Children First

Discussion: If you have children in the car, prioritize their safety. Instruct older children to unbuckle their seatbelts and assist them in escaping through the window. For younger children, quickly unbuckle their car seats or seatbelts and push them out of the window before attempting your own escape. This ensures that they are out of harm's way as soon as possible.

5. Escape Through the Window

Discussion: Once the window is open or broken, escape through it as quickly as possible. The window provides the most accessible exit route since the doors are difficult to open due to water pressure. If you are unable to break a side window, a sunroof can also serve as an exit point. Focus on getting yourself and any passengers out swiftly.

6. Swim Upwards

Discussion: After escaping the car, swim to the surface. Bubbles will naturally rise, so following the direction of the bubbles can help you find your way up. Avoid the instinct to try and open the doors, as the water pressure outside will make this nearly impossible until the car is fully submerged and the pressure equalizes. Use your energy to swim towards safety.

7. Use a Tool

Discussion: Having a tool specifically designed for breaking car windows can be lifesaving. Devices like a spring-loaded center punch, seatbelt cutter, or heavy-duty glass breaker should be kept within easy reach inside the car. These tools are effective at shattering windows, enabling a quicker escape. Familiarize yourself with how to use these tools so that in an emergency, you can act swiftly and confidently.

8. Practice

Discussion: Rehearse your escape plan with your family. Knowing the steps theoretically is different from being able to execute them in a real emergency. Regularly practicing the steps can help ensure that everyone knows what to do. Conduct mock drills so that in the event of an actual emergency, the response is almost automatic.

9. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Discussion: As you swim to safety, remain mindful of obstacles and other hazards in the water. Vehicles may sink in rivers, lakes, or even deep ditches where submerged objects like trees, rocks, or debris can pose additional dangers. Being aware of your surroundings helps you avoid these hazards and swim to a clear and safe exit point.

10. Call for Help

Discussion: Once you have reached safety, immediately call emergency services. Providing them with your location and details about the incident can expedite rescue efforts. If others are still trapped or injured, prompt action is crucial. Your call for help is an essential step in ensuring that everyone receives the necessary assistance as quickly as possible.

Conclusion

Understanding and practicing these steps can greatly enhance your chances of surviving a sinking car scenario. Equip your vehicle with necessary tools, rehearse your escape plan regularly, and always prioritize staying calm and focused in an emergency. By being prepared and aware, you can act swiftly and efficiently to ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers.