The thought of being trapped in a vehicle is a terrifying scenario for any driver. Whether in an accident that leaves your car upside down or submerged in water, the ability to escape quickly can be the difference between life and death. While these situations are, thankfully, not common, preparation is key. Having the right car escape tool readily available is a crucial part of any driver’s safety plan.
AAA’s extensive research has shed light on the effectiveness of car escape tools, particularly when it comes to different types of car window glass. Their report highlights a critical distinction: not all car windows are created equal, and consequently, not all escape tools work on every type of glass.
Alt: AAA public service announcement image showing the ineffectiveness of car escape tools on laminated glass, emphasizing the importance of knowing your car windows.
Tempered vs. Laminated Glass: Understanding the Difference
AAA researchers rigorously tested six different car escape tools to assess their ability to break both tempered and laminated glass. The results were eye-opening. They discovered that only four of the tested tools were capable of shattering tempered glass, the type of glass commonly found in car side windows. However, none of the tools could effectively break laminated glass. Laminated glass, designed for enhanced safety and to prevent ejection during collisions, cracked under pressure but remained intact, proving impenetrable by standard escape tools. Interestingly, the research also indicated that spring-loaded tools outperformed hammer-style tools in breaking tempered glass.
This distinction is becoming increasingly important as more and more new vehicles are equipped with laminated side windows. Approximately one in three 2018 vehicle models incorporated laminated side windows. This safety feature, while beneficial in accidents to prevent ejection, presents a significant challenge in emergency escape situations where breaking a window is necessary.
Alt: Shattered tempered glass after being broken by a car escape tool, illustrating the intended function of these tools on the correct type of glass.
John Nielsen, managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair for AAA, emphasizes the critical knowledge gap: “To improve safety, more cars have laminated side windows – but a majority also have at least one window made of tempered glass. Our research found that generally vehicle escape tools can be effective in an emergency, but only if drivers know what type of side windows they have, otherwise they could waste precious seconds trying to break glass that will not shatter.”
Identifying Your Car Window Type: A Simple Check
Determining whether your car windows are tempered or laminated is straightforward. Simply check the bottom corner of your side windows for a label. This label should clearly indicate “tempered” or “laminated.” If the label is missing or the information isn’t clear, AAA recommends contacting your vehicle manufacturer directly for clarification. It’s also important to be aware that some vehicles may have different types of glass in different window locations – for example, tempered glass in the rear side windows and laminated glass in the front.
Choosing the Best Tool for Breaking Tempered Glass
Given that most car escape tools are effective only on tempered glass, selecting the right tool becomes crucial if your vehicle has tempered glass windows. AAA’s research suggests that spring-loaded escape tools are generally more effective than hammer-style tools for breaking tempered glass. When choosing a tool, consider the following:
- Effectiveness on Tempered Glass: Prioritize tools proven to shatter tempered glass reliably. Look for spring-loaded mechanisms for potentially better performance.
- Ease of Use: Select a tool you are comfortable handling and can use quickly and efficiently in a stressful situation. Practice using the tool beforehand to familiarize yourself with its operation.
- Accessibility: Keep the escape tool in an easily accessible location within your vehicle. Keychain tools, or tools mounted on the dashboard or steering column, ensure the tool is within reach during an emergency.
The S-U-R-E Method: Your Escape Plan
Being trapped in a car requires a clear and calm approach. Remember the S-U-R-E method for a structured escape:
- S – Stay Calm: Panic can hinder your ability to react effectively. Take a deep breath and focus on the steps needed to escape.
- U – Unbuckle Seatbelts: Ensure everyone in the vehicle is unbuckled and ready to exit as soon as possible.
- R – Roll Down or Break a Window: If possible, attempt to roll down a window. If the window is stuck or the car is submerged and window operation is not possible, and you have tempered glass, use your escape tool to break a side window. Remember, in a sinking car, water will rush in rapidly once a window is opened.
- Submerged Vehicle Note: If windows are laminated and cannot be broken, move to the back of the vehicle or any air pocket. Wait for the car to completely fill with water, which should equalize the pressure and potentially allow a door to open. Hammer-style tools may be harder to use underwater due to water resistance.
- E – Exit the Vehicle: Once a window is broken or a door can be opened, exit the vehicle quickly and move to a safe location.
Alt: A hand firmly holding a car safety hammer, poised to break a car window, emphasizing preparedness and the use of escape tools.
Preparation is Paramount
Emergency preparedness goes beyond just having a tool. AAA strongly recommends these proactive steps:
- Know Your Glass: Memorize whether your vehicle has tempered or laminated side windows. Identify tempered glass windows as your primary escape points in an emergency. Remember that standard escape tools will not work on laminated glass.
- Equip Your Vehicle: Keep a car escape tool in your vehicle. Ensure you are comfortable using it and have practiced beforehand. Choose an accessible location for the tool.
- Plan Your Escape: Develop and communicate an exit strategy with all vehicle occupants. Discuss potential scenarios and actions to take. Have a backup plan in case the escape tool is ineffective or unusable.
Conclusion: Empowering Drivers Through Knowledge and Preparation
Knowledge is indeed power when it comes to vehicle safety. Understanding your car’s features, like the type of window glass, and being equipped with the right tools and plan can significantly increase your chances of survival in an emergency. While the “Best Tool For Breaking Car Window” depends on the window type, being informed, prepared, and proactive is the most effective strategy for ensuring safety in unforeseen critical situations. Take the time to check your window type, equip your car, and plan your escape route – it’s a small effort that could make a life-saving difference.
