What should you do if you are stuck in an elevator?

China Rescue Equipment Network reminds you: Being trapped in an elevator is actually the safest situation you can be in.

As society continues to develop, high-rise buildings are becoming more common, and using elevators has become a daily necessity for many people. However, with this increased usage comes a rise in elevator-related incidents. In the week of May 14 to May 20, the fire department in Xiuzhou District, Jiaxing City, reported five elevator accidents. This highlights the importance of understanding what to do if you ever find yourself stuck in an elevator. The key message from the fire department is clear: "Stay calm and wait." Do not attempt to force open the elevator doors, as your position may be between two floors. Forcing the door could cause the elevator to malfunction, potentially leading to a dangerous fall into the shaft.

Avoid imitating scenes from movies where people escape through the ceiling. Opening the top panel will trigger the elevator's safety switch, but if it accidentally closes again, the elevator might start moving unexpectedly. In the dark shaft, you could trip on cables or slip on grease, risking serious injury. If the elevator suddenly drops, take the following steps to protect yourself: Press all the floor buttons, even if you're unsure of how many levels there are. This can activate the emergency power system, which may stop the elevator from falling. If there’s a handrail, hold on tightly to prevent losing balance. Bend your knees to cushion the impact, and lift your heels off the ground—this helps absorb the shock. If the elevator isn’t too crowded, try to grab onto the walls or hold your arms up for stability. Keep your back and head pressed against the wall to protect your spine.

Why does an elevator stop suddenly? It’s often a built-in safety mechanism designed to prevent more serious problems. Elevators come equipped with multiple safety features that activate when certain conditions are met. If something goes wrong, the elevator will stop to avoid further damage. Staying inside is the safest option. The elevator shaft has anti-fall devices that work reliably, and the risk of suffocation is minimal. Elevators are not completely sealed; they have vents on the top and small gaps at the door level. Unless someone is extremely weak or has health issues, suffocation is highly unlikely.

Of course, waiting isn’t the only thing you should do. As soon as you realize you’re trapped, notify someone outside immediately. Use the intercom system to contact the elevator rescue center or the control room. If that’s not possible, call 119 (fire) or 110 (police) directly. If communication is impossible, use your shoes to knock on the door rhythmically. Don’t shout randomly—listen carefully and stay alert for any signs of movement. Try to conserve your energy, and if there are elderly people or children with you, help them stay calm by having them sit down and breathe slowly. Remaining composed is essential in these situations.