Being trapped in a submerged or overturned car is a terrifying scenario. While rare, these accidents necessitate quick escape. A crucial tool for survival is a car window breaker. This guide explores the effectiveness of these tools, emphasizing the importance of knowing your car’s window type.
Understanding Car Window Types and Breaker Tools
AAA research reveals that car escape tools effectively break tempered glass but not laminated glass. Tempered glass shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces, while laminated glass, designed for increased safety, stays intact even when cracked. This difference is crucial when choosing and using a window breaking tool.
Spring-loaded tools, according to AAA tests, outperform hammer-style tools in breaking tempered glass. However, neither type could break laminated glass. This highlights the critical need to understand your vehicle’s window composition.
Identifying Your Car’s Window Type
One in three 2018 car models feature laminated side windows for improved safety in collisions. To identify your car’s window type:
- Check for Labels: Look for a label in the bottom corner of each side window indicating “tempered” or “laminated.”
- Consult Your Manufacturer: If labels are absent, contact your car’s manufacturer for clarification. Remember, window types can vary within a single vehicle (e.g., laminated front, tempered rear).
Emergency Escape Plan: The S-U-R-E Method
Preparation and a clear plan significantly increase your survival chances:
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Stay Calm: Panic hinders rational decision-making. Act swiftly but deliberately.
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Unbuckle: Ensure everyone unbuckles their seatbelts before attempting escape.
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Roll or Break: Try rolling down windows first. If unsuccessful and you have tempered glass, use your escape tool on a side window. In submerged vehicles:
- If windows won’t open or break (laminated), move to the rear for an air pocket. Wait for pressure equalization before opening a door.
- Hammer-style tools are difficult to use underwater; spring-loaded tools are preferable.
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Exit and Move: Quickly exit the vehicle and move everyone to a safe distance.
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Call 911: While crucial, prioritize escape in immediate danger (fire, submersion) before calling for help.
Choosing and Storing Your Car Escape Tool
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Tool Type: Opt for a spring-loaded tool for its effectiveness on tempered glass and ease of use.
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Accessibility: Keep the tool within easy reach, perhaps attached to your keychain, mounted on the dash, or secured to the steering column.
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Practice: Familiarize yourself with the tool’s operation beforehand.
Knowing your car’s window type and having a readily available escape tool are vital for emergency preparedness. A simple tool, combined with a clear plan, can be a lifesaver. For a comprehensive list of vehicles with laminated side windows, consult the AAA’s resource. (/AAA/common/AAR/files/Laminated-Glass-Vehicle-List.pdf)
