Stuck in an Elevator?
Here is what Not To Do!
The Do's and Don'ts when you're Stuck in An Elevator
Being stuck in an elevator is a common nightmare scenario for many people. Unfortunately for some people, it’s a reality. According to the National Elevator Industry, Inc., there are approximately 27,000 elevators in the United States, and on average, each one travels about 18 million miles a year. That’s a lot of potential for mechanical problems, especially if the elevator isn’t being properly maintained. Most elevators are equipped with multiple safety features that prevent them from getting stuck, but accidents can and do happen.
In some cases, power outages or severe weather can trap people in an elevator. In other cases, faulty equipment or human error can cause an elevator to become stuck between floors. No matter how it happens, being trapped in a small space with strangers is bound to be a stressful experience. Thankfully, most elevators (that are up to code) are equipped with emergency phones and alarms, so help is always just a call away.
According to the National Elevator Industry, Inc., you have a 1 in 16 million chance of getting stuck in an elevator. So the next time you step into an elevator, take a deep breath and relax – the odds are firmly in your favor. However, if you do find yourself stuck in an elevator, remember these Do’s and Don’ts when you’re stuck in an elevator.
What you should do If You're Stuck In An Elevator
Being stuck in an elevator can be a daunting experience. However, there are some simple things you can do to stay calm and make sure that you and everyone in the cab are safe.
Do Not Panic!
One of the most common fears people have is being stuck in an elevator. While it is admittedly a claustrophobic and potentially dangerous situation, it is important to remain calm and not to panic if you find yourself in this predicament. The first thing you should do is try to assess the situation. While you are more than likely not an experience elevator repair technician, there are things you can do to fix the problem. Such as pushing the the door open/close button, as well as the emergency stop button. Most elevators have a phone that you can use to call for help too. If these options aren’t available to you then the best thing to do is to wait patiently for help to arrive. It is important to stay calm because panicking will only make the situation worse and could even lead to injury. Try to occupy your mind with something else until help arrives, such as reading or listening to music. And remember, elevators are designed to be safe, so odds are you will be just fine.
Be Sure To Use The Emergency Alarm
If you find yourself trapped in an elevator, it is important to use the emergency alarm. This will notify the authorities that there is a problem and someone will come to help you. Additionally, the alarm will help to alert any other people who may be in the building so that they can avoid the elevator until it is fixed. In some cases, the alarm may also trigger an automatic message that will be sent to the elevator maintenance company. This can help to speed up the process of getting someone to come and fix the problem. So, if you find yourself stuck in an elevator or in an emergency situation, don’t hesitate to use the alarm system.
Move Away From The Elevator Doors
After help has been notified, it’s important to move away from the doors. If you remain near the doors, you run the risk of being injured if they open suddenly. Additionally, if the elevator starts moving again while you’re near the doors, you could be thrown out. Moving away from the doors will help keep you and everyone in the cab safe until help arrives.
What Not To Do If You're Stuck In An Elevator
Do not Attempt To Pry Open The Doors
When you’re stuck on an elevator, it can be tempting to try to pry the doors open and escape. However, there are several good reasons why you should resist this urge. First of all, it’s important to remember that elevators are designed to be safe. If the doors are jammed shut, it’s likely because the safety mechanism is working as it should. By trying to force the doors open, you could end up causing serious damage to the elevator. Additionally, you could hurt yourself in the process. It’s always best to wait patiently for help to arrive.
Do Not Attempt To Exit The Cab
When people get stuck in an elevator, their first instinct is often to try to exit the cab through the doors or hatch. However, this can be a dangerous mistake. First of all, it’s important to remember that elevators are designed to be safe. So if you’re stuck in an elevator, it’s likely because there’s a problem with the equipment, not because of some structural flaw. With that said, trying to exit the cab could put you in danger of being injured by the elevator equipment or falling down the elevator shaft. Additionally, most elevators are equipped with an emergency phone system and by remaining in the cab, you’ll be able to communicate with someone who can help you safely exit the elevator. So if you find yourself stuck in an elevator, remember to stay calm and wait for help to arrive.
Do Not Jump Up and Down
While this will seem like common sense, we want to make sure that it is on the list. If you find yourself stuck in an elevator, the last thing you should do is jump up and down. Not only is it pointless, but it can also be dangerous. First of all, jumping up and down won’t dislodge the elevator or get it moving any faster. In fact, all you’ll end up doing is wasting energy and making yourself tired. Secondly, there’s a risk that you could injure yourself if you jump up and down too vigorously. You could end up hitting your head on the ceiling, or you might twist your ankle if you land awkwardly. And finally, if there are other people in the elevator with you, they might not appreciate having to put up with your bouncing around.
Remember, Elevators Are Safe!
While the chances of getting stuck in an elevator are low, being stuck in an elevator can be a harrowing experience. Not only are you confined to a small space, but you may also be hundreds of feet off the ground. However, there are some things you can do to make the best of a bad situation. For example, it’s important to stay calm and avoid panicking. Remember, you have a 1 in 16 million chance of getting stuck in an elevator. If you’re with other people, try to reassure them and keep everyone calm. It’s also important not to try to force the doors open, as this could injure yourself or damage the elevator. Instead, use the emergency call button to summon help. And finally, try to stay as comfortable as possible until help arrives. By following these simple guidelines, you can make being stuck in an elevator a little less stressful.
