How to Stay Safe When Stuck in an Elevator: Essential Do's and Don'ts

Getting stuck in an elevator can be a stressful experience, especially for those with claustrophobia, but modern elevators are equipped with safety mechanisms that prevent free falls, making the situation generally safe. The key is to remain calm and follow proper procedures until help arrives.

The first step is to press and hold the emergency or alarm button for several seconds. This usually connects you to the elevator company's control center or sends a distress signal, sometimes enabling two-way communication with an operator. If there is no response, call the emergency number of the elevator company listed inside the cabin or dial 102 to reach the fire and rescue services.

You can also try pressing the button for the nearest floor or the door open button, as the elevator might be temporarily stopped and could resume operation or open at a nearby floor. However, repeatedly pressing buttons will not fix the problem and should be avoided.

While waiting for rescue, stay inside the elevator and do not attempt to force open the doors or exit through any partial openings, as the elevator may not be aligned with the floor, posing a serious risk. If traveling with children, keep them calm and maintain a relaxed atmosphere. In case a passenger feels unwell, has difficulty breathing, chest pain, or loses consciousness, immediately call emergency medical services at 101 and inform the rescuers of the situation.

Rescue teams and elevator technicians typically arrive quickly to safely free those trapped. Following these guidelines can help ensure a safe and less frightening experience during an elevator malfunction.