Being stuck in a submerged car is a terrifying situation, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of survival:
Stay Calm: Panic can cloud your judgment and decrease your chances of survival. Take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down and focus on the following steps.
Unbuckle Your Seatbelt: If you haven't already, unbuckle your seatbelt immediately. This step is crucial for being able to move freely within the car.
Open the Windows: If the car's electrical system is still functioning, try to roll down the windows as quickly as possible. If the windows are electric and won't roll down, try using a manual window crank if available. If you can't open the windows, proceed to the next step.
Escape Through a Door: If you cannot open the windows, you will need to escape through a door. However, you must wait until the interior of the car is filled with water before attempting to open a door. This equalizes the pressure between the inside and outside of the car, making it easier to open the door. Once the interior is flooded, open a door and swim to the surface.
Use a Tool to Break a Window: If you cannot open the windows or doors, you may need to break a window to escape. Keep a window-breaking tool such as a spring-loaded centre punch or a specialized emergency hammer in your car at all times. Aim for a side window or rear window, as they are usually easier to break than the windshield.
Exit Quickly: Once you have a means of escape, act quickly but calmly. Remember that every second counts. Swim to the surface and get to safety as soon as possible.
Stay Calm and Call for Help: Once you are safely out of the car and on dry land, call emergency services immediately. Inform them of your location and the situation so that they can dispatch help as quickly as possible.
It's crucial to practice these steps in your mind and know where your emergency tools are located in your car. Additionally, consider taking a water safety or survival course to learn more techniques for handling emergency situations like being stuck in a submerged vehicle.
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