Statistically, using per mile travelled, lifts are considered the safest mode of transportation beating walking and other modes of transport.
This is because they are fitted with safety mechanisms such as steel cables, brakes and counterweights to make sure that they cannot crash even in the event of power failure.
Despite the enhanced safety measures, a lift can malfunction, especially if it is not properly serviced.
Kenyans.co.ke compiled three things you should never try if stuck in a lift as they can endanger your life.
Jump Up and down
When a lift gets stuck, many people think they can jumpstart it by jumping up and down.
According to Edison International, an electric utility holding company, this is highly discouraged as it can diminish the chances of you getting rescued because jumping up and down can affect the stabilizer system.
Pry the Door Open
Do not try to be a hero and pry open the doors of a stuck lift. If the lift starts moving while the doors are open you can fall out and face increased danger.
“Trying to open the door can also damage the lift making it harder for the maintenance personnel to get you out,” warns Technical Safety BC a technical risk assessment company.
Try to Escape
Perhaps you have watched movies of people escaping through the hatches in the ceiling of a lift. Liberty Elevator Corporation, one of the world’s largest lift industries, warns never to try that in real life.
If you are trying to escape and the elevator starts moving, this will lead to serious injury or death.
Do not also try to escape if the doors of the elevator are slightly open. Normally, an elevator just gets stuck momentarily and this means if it starts moving, you will be squeezed to death.
Here is What to Do in Case of lift failure
If the lift has stuck because of power failure, press the open button. If the elevator was already near a landing door, it will open.
In case it is a malfunction, press the emergency button and be calm as you wait for help. Also, try other means of communication at your disposal to raise alarm.
After calling for help, move to the rear of the lift so that you do not get hurt when emergency personnel pries the door open.
It is important to note that elevators are built with a good ventilation system and there is minimal risk of suffocation if you are stuck except if the building is on fire.
