Being trapped in a sinking or overturned car is a terrifying scenario. While such accidents are rare, having an Emergency Tool For Breaking Car Window and a well-defined escape plan can be the difference between life and death. This guide will discuss the importance of these tools, their effectiveness, and how to use them properly.
Understanding Car Window Types and Escape Tools
Car windows are typically made of two types of glass: tempered and laminated. Tempered glass shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces when broken, while laminated glass is designed to stay intact even upon impact. This difference is crucial when choosing an emergency tool.
AAA research indicates that while most emergency tools can effectively break tempered glass, none were successful in breaking laminated glass. Spring-loaded tools generally performed better than hammer-style tools in shattering tempered windows.
Identifying Your Car’s Window Type
Knowing whether your car has tempered or laminated side windows is paramount. Check for a label in the bottom corner of each side window. It should clearly state the glass type. If no label is present, contact your vehicle manufacturer for information. Importantly, some vehicles use both types of glass in different locations. Identifying tempered glass windows is vital, as these will be your best escape route in an emergency.
Choosing and Using an Emergency Tool
Select an emergency tool you’re comfortable using and can easily access. Spring-loaded tools often come with keychains, allowing you to keep them within reach. Consider mounting the tool to the dashboard or steering column for accessibility during a collision.
Practice using the tool beforehand to ensure you understand its operation. Remember, hammer-style tools can be difficult to wield underwater, making spring-loaded options more suitable for submerged vehicle situations.
Developing an Escape Plan: The S-U-R-E Method
AAA recommends the S-U-R-E method for escaping a trapped vehicle:
- Stay Calm: Panic hinders clear thinking. Act quickly but deliberately.
- Unbuckle Seatbelts: Ensure everyone is unrestrained and ready to exit.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: If possible, roll down a window. If not, and you have a tempered glass window, use your emergency tool. In submerged vehicles, remember water will rush in once the window is broken. If all windows are laminated and cannot be broken, move to the back of the vehicle where an air pocket is likely to form. Wait for the pressure to equalize before attempting to open a door.
- Exit the Vehicle Quickly: Once an opening is created, help everyone exit swiftly and move to a safe distance. Call 911 once you are safe.
Conclusion
An emergency tool for breaking car window is a vital addition to any vehicle’s safety kit. Coupled with a well-practiced escape plan, it can significantly increase your chances of survival in a critical situation. Remember to identify your car’s window type, choose an appropriate tool, and familiarize yourself with the S-U-R-E method. Being prepared is the key to surviving a vehicle emergency.
