How You Can Help Airlines Be Safer
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Travel Tips.
How You Can Help Make Air Travel Safer
Summary:
Air travel is incredibly safe, and you'll likely never need to use the advice here, but knowing it could save lives.
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When boarding a plane, many passengers often take safety for granted. They might ignore the crew's safety announcements or skip reading the safety cards for operating emergency exits and oxygen masks. However, being informed can prevent injuries or fatalities in the unlikely event of an accident. Here’s what you can do to help ensure a safer flight:
1. Mind Your Carry-On Luggage
Be sensible with the amount of carry-on luggage you bring. The FAA requires airlines to limit carry-on baggage, and exceeding these limits might force the crew to check some items. Loose bags can become dangerous projectiles during an incident or obstruct evacuation pathways. Always ensure your carry-on is properly stowed to avoid these hazards.
2. Use Overhead Bins Wisely
When using overhead storage, remember that the doors might open during turbulence or a rough landing, spilling contents. To prevent injuries, especially to passengers in aisle seats, place hard, heavy items under the seat in front of you. Reserve the overhead bins for coats, hats, and small, soft bags.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Seat Belt
Before takeoff, practice fastening and unfastening your seat belt. Different aircraft have varying belt designs, and familiarity helps in emergencies.
4. Pay Attention to Safety Briefings
Listen to the pre-flight safety briefing that covers emergency exits, seat belts, life vests, and oxygen masks. If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to ask the flight attendants for clarification.
5. Read the Safety Card
The safety card in your seat pocket provides critical information, such as the locations of emergency exits and how to use emergency equipment like oxygen masks. Identify the nearest exit and count the rows between you and it, noting that it may be behind you. Always have a second escape option in mind.
6. Understand Oxygen Masks
Oxygen masks can differ between aircraft. They might drop down or need to be pulled from a compartment. Make sure you know how to activate the oxygen flow by tugging on the plastic tube. If unsure, ask a flight attendant.
7. Keep Your Seat Belt Fastened
While cruising, the pilot may turn off the "fasten seat belt" sign, but it's wise to keep it fastened in case of unexpected turbulence.
In Case of an Air Accident:
- Stay Calm: Keep a level head to make informed decisions.
- Follow Crew Instructions: The cabin crew's primary role is to ensure your safe evacuation.
- Check Outside Before Opening Exits: If there's fire outside, the flames could spread inside, so move to an alternate exit.
- Avoid Smoke: Stay low and follow floor lights leading to an exit. Use a cloth over your nose and mouth to filter smoke.
The National Transportation Safety Board often finds that preparedness is key in surviving accidents. Success in avoiding serious injury is not merely luck but a result of being informed and thinking ahead.
After Landing
Avoid jumping up immediately. Planes can make sudden stops while taxiing, and passengers have been injured by sudden movements. Wait until the plane stops completely and the seat belt sign is off before standing.
Smoking Prohibitions
Never smoke in airplane restrooms?"disabling a smoke detector could lead to a fine of up to $2,000. Always refrain from smoking in the aisle.
A little bit of common sense goes a long way in making your flight safer and more enjoyable.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: How You Can Help Airlines Be Safer.
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