How to Survive an Airplane Crash
What to do to Maximise Your Chances in an Aircraft Accident
Jan 19, 2009
The recent plane crash in New York reminded everyone that flying can occasionally be dangerous. Thankfully, aircraft crashes and forced landings are extremely rare. But they do happen, and statistics show that contrary to popular opinion, most of them can be survived if passengers are prepared in advance and do the right things in the event of an incident. Here is some advice.
Have a Plan in the Event of a Crash
Passengers should work out in advance what they will do in the event of a crash, forced landing, or ditching. Everyone should really listen to the safety announcement and read the safety card, and know exactly where their nearest exit is.
They should count the number of rows to that exit, so that they could find it in the dark or in thick smoke. The safest seats statistically are those at the rear, followed by the over-wing seats, with the front seats being least safe.
The Brace Position and Protecting Oneself from Impact
The best brace position is debatable; even the experts disagree. However, it is definitely essential to get one’s torso as low as possible, make sure you will not injure yourself by hitting the seat in front, and prevent injury to your legs and ankles which would prevent escape.
Therefore passengers should keep their feet flat on the floor, and place hand luggage under the seat in front as additional protection. It is also necessary to remove all sharp objects from one’s person, and try to use a cushion as head protection. Seat belts should be fastened as tightly as possible, and passengers should remind themselves of how to unfasten them.
After the Crash
At this point speed is essential. Shock can cause people to remain seated, or be unable to do anything at all. This can apply to the crew as well as the passengers, so while it is a good idea to wait a moment for instructions, if they do not come, passengers need to make their own decisions.
They should wet a handkerchief or other material and cover their mouths and noses to prevent smoke inhalation, using urine if water is not available- this is not a time to be fastidious! Climb over seat backs if gangways are blocked, and head for the nearest exit. Do not stop, even for a moment, to retrieve possessions; time may be crucial. However, keep calm, as panicking and fighting increases the time it takes for everyone to escape. It is said that the ‘golden period’ for escape lasts only about two minutes!
Those who plan to follow the above rules are very likely to get out of the plane alive. A US government study found that out of the 568 plane crashes in the USA between 1993 and 2000, 90% of people survived. So be prepared!
Source
The Sunday Telegraph, January 18th 2009
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