Being trapped in a car is a terrifying thought, especially if it’s sinking or overturned. While these situations are rare, a reliable tool to open your car window can be a lifesaver. This guide will help you choose the right tool and understand how to use it effectively.
Understanding Car Window Types
Before selecting a tool, it’s crucial to know your car’s window type: tempered or laminated. Tempered glass shatters into small pieces when broken, while laminated glass stays intact due to a plastic interlayer. This difference significantly impacts a car escape tool’s effectiveness. Many newer vehicles feature laminated side windows for increased safety during collisions, making it vital to identify your window type. Look for a label in the bottom corner of your side window indicating “tempered” or “laminated.” If no label exists, contact your vehicle manufacturer for clarification. Remember, some cars use both types, often with laminated glass in the front and tempered in the rear.
Choosing the Right Car Window Opening Tool
AAA research reveals that spring-loaded car window breaker tools are more effective at shattering tempered glass than hammer-style tools. However, no tool consistently broke laminated glass in their tests. This reinforces the importance of knowing your window type and planning your escape strategy accordingly. When choosing a tool, consider factors like ease of use, storage in the vehicle, and your comfort level. Spring-loaded tools often include keychains for convenient attachment to your keys or visor. Mounting a tool on the dash or steering column ensures accessibility during a crash.
Emergency Escape Plan: The S-U-R-E Method
Develop a clear escape plan and share it with all passengers. In an emergency, follow the S-U-R-E method:
- Stay Calm: Panic hinders rational thinking. Act quickly but deliberately.
- Unbuckle Seatbelts: Ensure everyone is ready to exit.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: If power windows fail, use your tool on a tempered glass window. If submerged, remember water will rush in once the window is broken. If all windows are laminated or you cannot break them, move to the back for an air pocket. Wait for pressure to equalize before opening a door. Note: Hammer-style tools are difficult to use underwater.
- Exit and Move to Safety: Quickly get everyone out and away from the vehicle. Call 911 once you are safe. In immediate danger (fire or submersion), prioritize escape over calling.
Laminated Glass and Escape Strategies
While laminated glass enhances safety in collisions, it presents a challenge for escape tools. If your car has laminated side windows, identify any tempered glass windows for escape. If all windows are laminated, your last resort is to wait for the vehicle to fill with water, allowing pressure to equalize and enabling you to open a door.
Be Prepared: Practice and Planning
Familiarize yourself with your chosen tool. Practice using it on a suitable surface (not your car window!) to ensure you understand its operation. Regularly check your tool’s functionality.
Conclusion
A tool to open a car window is a valuable addition to any vehicle’s emergency kit. However, it’s equally crucial to understand your car’s window type and have a well-defined escape plan. Combining the right tool with knowledge and preparation significantly increases your chances of survival in a critical situation. Remember to check AAA’s list of vehicles with laminated side windows for more information specific to your car model.
