1. Unbuckle Your Seat Belt
The first thing you need to do when your car starts to sink is to unbuckle your seat belt. This will allow you to move freely and make the necessary moves to escape. If you don’t have your seat belt on, chances are you will be thrown around the car, which can leave you disoriented, injured or worse.
2. Open the Windows
The next step is to open the windows as quickly as you can. This may seem difficult when you consider the pressure of the water, but it’s essential to open the windows as soon as possible. Depending on the age of your car and the type of windows you have, you may not be able to open them electronically if the car has lost power. In this case, you will need to use a window-breaking tool to break the glass. The tool should be easily accessible in the glove compartment or on your keychain.
3. Escape Through the Windows
Once you’ve opened the windows, it’s important to escape through them as soon as you can. This will be a challenge because water will be pouring in from the windows, and you are likely to be disoriented or panicked. In such a case, the most important thing to remember is to stay calm and focused.
It’s also essential to think about how to escape through the window. If the car is sinking nose-first, you will need to escape through the driver’s side window. However, if the car is sinking tail-first, you will need to escape through the passenger side window.
4. Use the Sunroof
If you have a car with a sunroof, this can be another avenue of escape. Try to open it as quickly as you can and use it to escape if it is available. Some sunroofs may not open automatically, in which case, you will need to use a tool to break the glass and crawl out.
5. Take a Deep Breath
When making any attempt to escape, you will need to take a deep breath before you leave the vehicle. Even if you only stay underwater for a few seconds, taking a deep breath can give you the time you need to escape.
6. Swim to the Surface
After you’ve left the vehicle, make your way to the surface as quickly as possible. Don’t try to retrieve belongings or check for injuries as you will have lost vital time. Swim to the closest point of safety, and call for assistance.
In Conclusion
Escaping a sinking car can be a daunting and challenging task, but keeping your wits about you is essential to your survival. With the right steps and tools, escaping a sinking car can be achieved. Remembering the above steps and staying calm can save your life.