Make It Out Alive: How to Survive These Three Disasters in Your Car

Shawn Henry

September 24, 2024 at 1:10 PM·5 min read

Read the full story on The Auto Wire

Make It Out Alive: How to Survive These Three Disasters in Your Car

Disasters can strike at any moment, and when they happen while you're behind the wheel, they can quickly become life-threatening. Whether you're submerged in water, facing a tornado, or stranded in a snowstorm, knowing what to do in these extreme situations could save your life and the lives of your passengers. In this article, we’ll cover the essential steps to survive three common yet terrifying car-related disasters: sinking in water, getting caught in a tornado, and being stranded in a snowstorm.

1. How to Escape a Sinking Car

One of the most alarming situations you can face while driving is having your car plunge into water. It happens faster than you’d think, and knowing what to do in those crucial seconds is critical. Here are five essential tips for escaping a sinking car:

Step 1: Stay Calm

Panic is your worst enemy. The first thing to do when your car hits the water is to take a deep breath and focus. A sinking car usually floats for 30 to 120 seconds, giving you a brief window to act. You need to make decisions quickly but with a clear head.

Step 2: Roll Down the Windows Immediately

As soon as your vehicle makes contact with water, roll down the windows. This is your primary exit point. Automatic windows often still function briefly underwater, but once the car submerges, the water pressure may make it impossible to open them. If you can’t roll them down, use a tool or hard object to break them, but don’t try to break the windshield—it's much too thick.

Step 3: Remove Your Seatbelt

Quickly unfasten your seatbelt. If it's stuck, cut through it with a seatbelt cutter or other sharp object. You need to be mobile to escape, so don’t hesitate to free yourself first.

Step 4: Help Passengers

If there are passengers, especially children, assist them in removing seatbelts or getting out of car seats. Once free, guide them to the nearest open window for escape.

Step 5: Swim to Safety

After exiting through the window, push away from the vehicle and swim to the surface. If you’re with small children, push them through the window first, then follow immediately to guide them to safety.

What Not to Do:

Don’t open the doors: This will flood the car faster and make it harder for anyone inside to escape.
Don’t wait for the car to fill with water: Some advise waiting for pressure to equalize, but this can take minutes. It's better to exit through the windows as quickly as possible.

2. How to Survive a Tornado in Your Car

Tornadoes are unpredictable and deadly, especially if you’re on the road when one strikes. Here’s what to do if you find yourself facing a twister while driving:

Step 1: Stay in Your Car

If you're unable to get to a safe building or shelter, staying in your car is your best option. Fasten your seatbelt and lower your head below window level. Use your hands and any available padding like coats or blankets to protect your head from debris.

Step 2: Seek Lower Ground

If you spot a ditch or low-lying area near the road, you may be able to safely exit the car and lie flat in that spot, covering your head. Do this only if it’s noticeably safer than staying in the car, and make sure you're well away from your vehicle, which could be thrown by the tornado.

Step 3: Avoid Overpasses

It may seem like a safe option, but overpasses create wind tunnels that can intensify the tornado’s effects, making them extremely dangerous spots to shelter.

Step 4: Keep Your Vehicle Maintained

In regions prone to tornadoes, always ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with up-to-date weather alerts and an emergency kit on hand.

Step 5: Know the Weather

Always be aware of tornado watches and warnings when traveling, especially during storm season. Being prepared and proactive can make all the difference.

3. How to Survive a Snowstorm in Your Car

Getting stranded in a snowstorm while driving can be dangerous, especially if you're unprepared. Here are steps to keep yourself and your passengers safe:

Step 1: Stay Inside the Car

Your car is your best shelter from the cold and snow. Remaining inside the vehicle will protect you from hypothermia, frostbite, and being hit by other cars, especially in low visibility conditions.

Step 2: Pack Emergency Supplies

Always have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. This should include:

Warm clothing, blankets, and sleeping bags
Non-perishable food and bottled water
Flashlights with spare batteries
A first-aid kit
Sand or kitty litter for traction
An ice scraper and shovel
Jumper cables and a portable phone charger

Step 3: Check Your Tailpipe

To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, periodically check that your tailpipe isn't blocked by snow. Run the car for short intervals to warm up but avoid keeping the engine on for long periods to conserve fuel.

Step 4: Signal for Help

To make yourself visible to rescuers, tie a brightly colored cloth to your car’s antenna or door. Turn on your dome light at night when running the engine, and raise your car’s hood once the snow stops falling.

Step 5: Keep Moving to Stay Warm

Even while sitting, make small movements to improve circulation. Hug yourself, wiggle your toes, or stretch to prevent stiffness and maintain body heat.