How To Survive A Falling Elevator?

Elevators are pretty safe, so much so that your chances of being inside a falling elevator is one in millions. Moreover, modern elevators are equipped with multiple failsafe mechanisms that can protect users in case of a falling elevator.

However, there can be external factors such as an explosion or earthquake that can result in a free-falling elevator. In an uncertain world, it is better to be prepared. To have at least some idea of how you can increase your chances of survival. To understand how to survive a falling elevator, here are some things you can do.

Jumping before landing – Theoretically, it may be possible to reduce the velocity a bit by jumping just before the free-falling elevator lands. However, the overall reduction in velocity will be too less to make any significant difference.

What is even more important to understand is that it will be practically impossible to predict when exactly the elevator will land. You may rely on your gut feelings and survival instincts, but there’s very little chance that you will be able to jump at exactly the right moment before the elevator lands.

Bracing for impact – Some people suggest that one should use all four limbs to brace for the impact in case of a free-falling elevator. The effectiveness of this technique will depend on the height from which the elevator is falling and its speed.

In cases where the speed of the free-falling elevator is not that fast, getting down on your four limbs may work better than a standing position. However, if the elevator is falling at a faster speed, you could risk hitting the surface face forward. This can lead to serious injuries to your head.

Lying down on the floor – When it comes to surviving a free-falling elevator, most experts agree that the best option is to lie flat on your back. And cover the back of your head with both your hands for cushioning. The rationale for this approach is that the force of impact will be equally distributed throughout the body. You may still have some broken bones or ribs, but you will be in a better position in comparison to falling on your legs. The healing time will be faster.

Last but not least, try not to panic. Such things can happen without warning and it may not always be possible to keep your calm. However, panicking will only create more problems such as increased heart rate and stress. The drill is to just lie down on the floor on your back and cover your head with your hands. Just this one maneuver can increase your chances of surviving a free-falling elevator.