Being trapped in a car during an emergency is a terrifying thought. Whether it’s a rollover crash or a vehicle submerged in water, having an emergency escape tool can be the difference between life and death. This guide will help you understand the importance of car escape tools, how they work, and what to consider when purchasing one.
Why You Need an Emergency Escape Tool
While rare, accidents resulting in submerged or overturned vehicles do happen. In these critical situations, a car escape tool can be your lifeline. These compact devices are designed to help you quickly shatter car windows, allowing you to escape to safety. Every second counts in an emergency, and an escape tool empowers you to take control.
Understanding Car Window Glass: Tempered vs. Laminated
AAA research reveals a crucial factor in choosing an escape tool: knowing your car’s window type. Most vehicles use two types of glass:
- Tempered Glass: This type of glass is designed to shatter into small, relatively harmless pieces upon impact. It’s commonly found in side and rear windows. Emergency escape tools are generally effective in breaking tempered glass.
- Laminated Glass: This type of glass consists of two layers of glass bonded with a layer of plastic. It’s designed to resist shattering and is often used in windshields and increasingly in side windows for added safety in rollovers. Most standard escape tools cannot break laminated glass.
Identifying your car’s window type is vital. Check for a label in the bottom corner of each window or consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Knowing this information can save precious seconds in a crisis.
Choosing the Right Emergency Escape Tool
AAA testing shows that spring-loaded escape tools are more effective at breaking tempered glass than hammer-style tools. Look for a tool with a sharp, pointed tip designed specifically for breaking glass. Consider factors like ease of use, grip, and storage options within your vehicle.
Developing Your Emergency Escape Plan: The S-U-R-E Method
Having an escape tool is only part of the solution. Develop a clear escape plan and practice it with everyone in your family. AAA recommends the S-U-R-E method:
- Stay Calm: Panic can hinder your ability to think clearly. Take deep breaths and focus on your escape plan.
- Unbuckle Seatbelts: Ensure everyone in the vehicle unbuckles their seatbelts immediately.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: Attempt to roll down the windows first. If unsuccessful, use your escape tool on a tempered glass window. If submerged, remember that water will rush in once the window is broken. If you cannot break a window, move to the back of the vehicle where an air pocket may form.
- Exit the Vehicle Quickly: Once a window is broken or a door is open, exit the vehicle swiftly and move everyone to a safe distance.
Be Prepared: It Could Save Your Life
Investing in an emergency escape tool and developing an escape plan are essential steps for car safety. While these situations are hopefully rare, being prepared can significantly increase your chances of survival. Remember to check your vehicle’s window type, choose a reliable escape tool, and practice your escape plan regularly. Don’t wait for an emergency to happen – be proactive and ensure your safety today.
