The thought of being trapped can trigger immediate panic, especially when you imagine being stuck in a car flipped upside down or sinking in water. While these scenarios are rare, with approximately 8,000 submersion crashes in 2017, compared to significantly more rollover accidents, preparedness is key. Having a car escape tool and knowing how to use it can be the difference between life and death in such critical situations.
AAA’s research report investigated the effectiveness of various car escape tools, highlighting important distinctions for drivers. Their findings offer valuable insights when considering Car Rescue Tool Reviews and making informed decisions for your safety.
AAA Research: Testing Car Escape Tool Effectiveness
In a comprehensive study, AAA evaluated six different car escape tools to assess their ability to break both tempered and laminated vehicle glass. The research revealed that only four of the tested tools successfully shattered tempered glass, the type commonly found in most car side windows. Crucially, none of the tools were effective against laminated glass, which remained intact even after cracking attempts. Further testing indicated that spring-loaded tools outperformed hammer-style tools in breaking tempered windows.
This research underscores the importance of car rescue tool reviews, not just in terms of features, but in understanding their real-world effectiveness against different types of automotive glass.
The Rise of Laminated Side Windows
An important takeaway from the AAA study is the increasing prevalence of laminated side windows in newer vehicles. Approximately 1 in 3 of the 2018 vehicle models incorporate laminated side windows. This safety feature, designed to prevent ejection during collisions, presents a significant challenge in emergency escape situations because of its resistance to standard car escape tools.
John Nielsen, Managing Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair for AAA, points out this critical detail: “To improve safety, more cars have laminated side windows – but a majority also have at least one window made of tempered glass. Our research found that generally vehicle escape tools can be effective in an emergency, but only if drivers know what type of side windows they have, otherwise they could waste precious seconds trying to break glass that will not shatter.”
For consumers relying on car rescue tool reviews to guide their purchases, understanding this distinction is paramount. A tool effective on tempered glass will be useless against laminated glass.
Identifying Your Car’s Window Type
Before you rely on any car rescue tool, it’s vital to determine what type of glass your vehicle uses for its side windows. Fortunately, identifying the glass type is straightforward. Look for a label in the bottom corner of your side windows. This label will clearly indicate if the glass is “tempered” or “laminated.” If the label is missing or unclear, contacting your vehicle manufacturer is recommended. Be aware that some vehicles may have different types of glass in different window locations, such as tempered glass in the rear and laminated glass in the front.
This knowledge is crucial for effective emergency planning and for making informed choices based on car rescue tool reviews. Knowing your window type will guide you to select the right tool and escape strategy.
Emergency Preparedness: The S-U-R-E Method
Being prepared for a vehicle emergency dramatically increases survival chances. AAA recommends these crucial steps for preparedness:
Pre-Emergency Preparation:
- Know Your Glass: Memorize whether your vehicle’s side windows are tempered or laminated. Identify tempered glass windows as your primary escape points if available. Remember, standard escape tools are ineffective on laminated glass.
- Equip Your Vehicle: Keep a car escape tool readily accessible in your car. Choose a tool you are comfortable using and have familiarized yourself with beforehand. Spring-loaded tools, often available as keychains or mountable devices, are generally more effective on tempered glass.
- Plan Your Escape: Develop and communicate an exit strategy to all vehicle occupants. This proactive planning reduces confusion during emergencies and saves precious time. Also, consider a backup plan if the escape tool is unusable or ineffective.
If Trapped – The S-U-R-E Escape Method:
In a trapped vehicle situation, remember the S-U-R-E method for a structured response:
- Stay Calm: Maintaining composure is crucial. Act swiftly but cautiously to ensure everyone’s safe exit.
- Unbuckle Seatbelts: Immediately release all seatbelts and ensure everyone is prepared to evacuate.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: First, attempt to roll down a window. If submerged, be aware that water will rush in once a window is opened. If the window is jammed and your car has tempered glass, use your escape tool to break a side window. If submerged and windows are inoperable (especially if laminated), move to the back of the vehicle to locate an air pocket. Stay with the air pocket until the vehicle completely fills with water, equalizing pressure and potentially allowing a door to open. Note that hammer-style tools may be harder to use underwater compared to spring-loaded tools.
- Exit the Vehicle: Evacuate quickly and move everyone to a safe location away from the vehicle.
- Call 911: Contact emergency services after ensuring immediate safety. In situations like submersion or fire, prioritize escape before calling for help.
Conclusion: Knowledge and Preparation are Your Best Tools
As Nielsen emphasizes, “Knowledge is power.” Understanding your vehicle, particularly the type of side window glass, combined with proactive preparation, is the most effective approach to vehicle emergency safety. Car rescue tool reviews can guide you towards helpful devices, but knowing your car and practicing an escape plan are invaluable. Equip yourself with knowledge and the right tools to enhance your safety and preparedness on the road.
