How to Survive a Plane Crash by Following These Simple Instructions

Many people find it more interesting to read a book, talk to their friend or listen to music instead of listening to the flight attendant’s instructions. However, this is the first mistake people usually make and the one that lowers their chances of survival in case of an accident.

According to Dave Inch, captain of a Boeing 787 (a plane used by many international airlines) revealed that there are many things you can do in order to increase your chances of survival if the plane you’re in starts to go down.

Firstly, you need to remove any sharp objects from your pockets, loosen your belt and remove any ties and scarfs. Moreover, take off high heels and glasses if wearing any. This will allow you to move freely and not harm yourself.

Secondly, make sure that you map out the plane right when you board: be aware of the closest exit and find a backup one just in case, as there are some that cannot be used if the plane lands on water. After doing so, count the number of rows to the exit and identify all the obstacles that might be on the way. This will be helpful in case the cabin fills with smoke.

Another highly important thing is not to get up from your seat unless you are instructed to; moreover, don’t attempt to open doors and windows unless a flight attendant tells you to. In case there is smoke, use a damp piece of cloth over your mouth to assist breathing and try and stay as low to the ground as you can.

"Follow the instructions of the flight attendants in their pre-landing briefing," he wrote.

"If everyone is on the same page and understands what is expected of them, people will be working together to get everyone out. Don't waste your time taking video with your camera.... LISTEN and PAY ATTENTION. If you survive with a video, it's cool. If you die because you were more interested in taking a video than paying attention, it's not so cool."

Another important thing regards the life vest: don’t inflate it until you’re out the doorway. Why? Well, if it inflates inside and the aircraft fills with water, you won’t stand a chance swimming underwater to an exit. To avoid this, take it off and hold onto someone else, as one vest can carry two people.

Say you succeeded to get out of the aircraft: make sure to stay away from smoke and fire, and don’t leave the area so that you can be accounted for.

"All that being said, most catastrophic crashes are not anticipated so it is rare to get much advance notice," Inch wrote.

"In those cases, if you survive, follow the flight attendants' directions and don't take anything with you."

Source: travelandleisure.com