Air Disasters: Surviving a Plane Crash

A lot of people are afraid of flying and no one can really blame them. People are more vulnerable to accidents up in the air than on land because of its unstable condition and lack of definite traffic flow. But passengers can keep in mind some plane crash survival tips to keep themselves safe the next time they decide to fly.

• Emergency exits – As soon as you board the plane, check the two emergency exits nearest to your seat. Plan your escape route. Count the seats between the exit and your own seat so that in case of smoke that may impair your vision, you’d be able to feel and count the seats.
• It is actually safer at the back – Some organizations concerned with aviation safety claim that there are no safe seats. However, in 2007, Popular Mechanics made a study that looked at the survival data from plane crashes since 1971. It was found that people in rear seats or behind the wing's trailing edge were safer by as much as 69 percent. Sitting by the doors may result to getting sucked out of the cabin of a pressurized plane. So maybe it would be smart to sit at the back of the plane instead.
• The proper attire – Long sleeves and pants can provide better coverage in case of a fire compared to ordinary T-shirts and shorts. Choose a closed-toe shoe instead of sandals or slippers because it will help protect your feet from glass or metal shrapnel. Remember also to remove pencils, pens, eyeglasses, and high-heeled shoes since their sharp tips may harm you or the other passengers.
• Pre-flight instructions – Listen carefully to pre-flight instructions. Putting the seat belt on as tightly as possible is just the initial precautionary step in keeping yourself safe.
• Getting ready for impact – The proper crash position according to the Federal Aviation Administration is to “extend the arms, cross hands, and place them on the seat in front.” Your head should be placed against the back of the hands. Feet should be tucked under the seat.
• The “Golden Time”: The first 90 seconds or the first two minutes of the plane crash is considered as the “golden time.” Try to stay calm and move fast within this first minute. That includes moving far away from the plane as swiftly as possible.

It will also help if the family can work together to save one another. In case of fire, remember to keep your head down, cover your mouth and nose, and hold a wet cloth over your mouth. And remember to keep both hands free and never try to save your belongings.


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