Service Your Elevator -- Don't Get Trapped!

Getting stuck in an elevator is something that no one ever expects or thinks will happen to them, but it could totally happen to you.

Because an elevator is designed to handle many passengers in a single day, and even in a single hour, those who own them and are paid to maintain them take special care to ensure that they are working properly and effectively at all times.

Moreover, elevators typically get regular maintenance and are upgraded whenever necessary simply because their most important job is to not get stuck, and it's the responsibility of those who own and maintain them to ensure that it doesn't happen.

Yet with all that being said, it is entirely possible that you may one day find yourself stuck in an elevator, even if you are not someone who rides one on a regular basis. The simple laws of mathematics state that there is certainly a random chance that it could happen to anyone.

So without becoming too alarmed, nervous or worried about taking a ride, how should you remain prepared in case this should ever happen to you? There is no way to physically prepare, since it is out of your control and something that would only happen by chance. Because of that, all you can do is prepare mentally and keep a few important things in mind in case you ever find yourself in such a situation.

First and foremost, it is most important to stay calm. Making sure you do not alarm yourself and those around you with your thoughts and behaviors is key to making sure the situation does not get out of hand. The vast majority of people who get stuck will simply wait until one is working again and do not suffer any injuries whatsoever.

It is also important to keep in mind that you should not take for granted that someone has noticed that the elevator you are riding on is stuck. Most elevators have an emergency alert button, a call button or an emergency phone that can be used to contact the appropriate parties in the event of an accident. Use one of these methods, or your cell phone if necessary, to alert someone of the situation as soon as possible.

Finally, do not try to force your way out of the elevator. You are likely to be safest by remaining calm and sitting or standing quietly. Trying to force your way out or thrashing around inside can increase your chances of something going more significantly wrong. It is also possible to hurt yourself trying to escape, and you would have no way of seeking medical attention right away.