Buzz
Being trapped in an elevator can be distressing, especially for those with fears of heights or enclosed spaces. If you ever find yourself stuck between floors, follow these steps to ensure a safe escape. Remember, it's best to stay calm and call for help rather than attempting risky maneuvers. To learn how to escape safely, follow the steps below.
Contact Emergency Services
Remain composed.
Locate a light source in case of darkness.
Press the emergency call button. If the area is dim, use the light source to locate the call button. Then, press it to summon assistance from a technician. Notifying maintenance promptly is the safest and most efficient way to seek help, far preferable to attempting makeshift solutions.
If there's no response, attempt to contact someone for assistance.
Depress the 'door open' button.
If unable to use the call button, endeavor to attract attention from those outside the elevator. If attempts to use the call button or call for help prove futile, try to vocally signal for aid. You can tap on the door with footwear or other items and call out to passersby. Depending on the door's soundproofing, tapping with a key may produce a loud noise in the elevator shaft. While shouting can draw attention, excessive noise may induce panic, so strive to remain composed during your plea for assistance.
Exercise patience.
Escape
Pointers
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Before heading to places where you might use an elevator, ensure you have your cell phone with you.
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Make an effort to remain calm and avoid alarming others if you're stuck with companions. After seeking assistance, try sitting down and initiating an unrelated conversation if feasible to momentarily divert your attention from the situation.
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It's a good idea to carry a small snack in your pockets or bag to stave off hunger during tight situations, even if you're not expecting to use an elevator.
The recommendations provided here are drawn from the real-life experiences of Mytour readers like yourself. If you have a helpful tip you'd like to share on Mytour, please feel free to submit it below.
- If you find yourself trapped in an elevator, once you've called for help, be sure to reach out to your friends and family to inform them of your whereabouts. And most importantly, keep calm.
- If you have food with you, avoid consuming it all at once. You can go without food for some time, and you might feel hungry later depending on how long you remain stuck in the elevator.
Cautions
- It's generally safer to stay inside the elevator, as attempting to crawl around the elevator shaft could expose you to the risk of electrocution or being crushed. Unless it's a life-threatening situation, remain where you are.
- Do not try to escape the elevator without assistance (unless there is an obvious danger such as fire or smoke). Once you've exited the elevator, do not attempt to re-enter it. There have been instances of elevator malfunctions resulting in falls down the shaft or getting trapped in the doors upon re-entry.
- Avoid smoking or using matches, as this could trigger additional alarms, potentially disabling the elevator entirely and prolonging your wait time.
