Being trapped in a submerged or overturned car is a terrifying scenario. While such incidents are rare, a car escape tool can be a lifesaver. But do all tools work on all car windows? This article explores the critical role of car escape tools in emergencies, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations.
Understanding Car Window Types: Tempered vs. Laminated
Before choosing a car escape tool, understanding the difference between tempered and laminated glass is crucial. Tempered glass, commonly used in side and rear windows, shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces when broken. Laminated glass, often found in windshields and increasingly in side windows, consists of two layers of glass bonded with a plastic interlayer. This construction makes it highly resistant to shattering, providing enhanced protection in rollovers and reducing the risk of ejection in accidents. AAA research indicates that one-third of 2018 vehicle models incorporated laminated side windows.
Car Escape Tool Effectiveness: AAA Research Findings
AAA conducted a study on six different car escape tools, testing their ability to break both tempered and laminated glass. The results revealed a significant difference in performance. While four of the six tools successfully shattered tempered glass, none could break the laminated glass, even after developing cracks. Furthermore, spring-loaded tools proved more effective on tempered glass compared to hammer-style tools. This underscores the importance of knowing your car’s window type before relying on an escape tool.
Choosing the Right Tool for Breaking Car Window
Selecting the right car escape tool for breaking a car window in an emergency involves several factors. Spring-loaded center punches, as highlighted by the AAA study, are generally more effective on tempered glass than hammer-style tools. Ensure the tool is easy to handle and access in a stressful situation. Consider mounting it on the dashboard or steering column for quick retrieval.
Identifying Your Car’s Window Type
Locating information about your car’s window type is straightforward. Check for a small label in the bottom corner of each side window. This label should clearly indicate “Tempered” or “Laminated”. If the label is missing or unclear, contact your vehicle manufacturer for clarification. Remember, different windows on the same car may use different glass types.
Escaping a Submerged or Overturned Vehicle: The S-U-R-E Method
In a car emergency, remembering the acronym S-U-R-E can be life-saving:
- Stay Calm: Panic hinders clear thinking. Act quickly but deliberately.
- Unbuckle Seatbelts: Ensure everyone is ready to exit.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: Prioritize tempered glass windows if present. If submerged, remember water will rush in once a window is broken. If escape is impossible through windows, move to the back for an air pocket until pressure equalizes, then open a door.
- Exit Quickly and Move to Safety: Once out, get everyone away from the vehicle and call 911.
Conclusion: Preparation is Key
Having a tool for breaking car windows in an emergency is crucial, but equally important is knowing your vehicle’s window type and having an escape plan. A spring-loaded center punch is generally recommended, but it’s effectiveness is limited to tempered glass. Familiarize yourself with the S-U-R-E method and practice your escape strategy. Preparation can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.
