Imagine the unthinkable – being trapped in your car after an accident. Whether your vehicle is submerged underwater or overturned, the ability to escape quickly is critical. While these scenarios are rare, preparation is key. Having a reliable Car Window Glass Breaking Tool can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Recent research from AAA has shed light on the effectiveness of car escape tools, specifically their ability to break different types of car window glass. Their studies highlight a crucial distinction for drivers to understand: not all car windows are created equal, and consequently, not all car window glass breaking tools are universally effective.
AAA’s comprehensive testing evaluated six different car escape tools to assess their performance on both tempered and laminated glass. The results were revealing. Researchers discovered that only four of the tested tools successfully shattered tempered glass, the type commonly found in many vehicle side windows. However, none of the tools were effective against laminated glass. Laminated glass, designed for enhanced safety, remained intact even after attempts to break it with these tools, only cracking under pressure. Furthermore, the research indicated that spring-loaded car window glass breaking tools outperformed hammer-style tools in shattering tempered glass.
This distinction is becoming increasingly important as more and more new vehicles incorporate laminated side windows. In fact, approximately one in three 2018 vehicle models are equipped with laminated side windows. This safety feature, while beneficial in preventing ejection during collisions, presents a challenge in emergency escape situations where a car window glass breaking tool might be needed.
“As vehicle safety technology advances, more vehicles are being manufactured with laminated side windows, in addition to tempered glass,” notes John Nielsen, managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair for AAA. “Our research underscores that while car window glass breaking tools can be invaluable in an emergency, their effectiveness is directly tied to the type of side window glass a vehicle has. Drivers must be informed to avoid losing crucial seconds attempting to break a window that is designed not to shatter.”
Determining the type of glass in your vehicle’s side windows is straightforward. Simply check the bottom corner of each side window for a label. This label will clearly indicate whether the glass is tempered or laminated. If the information is unclear or absent, contacting your vehicle manufacturer is recommended. It’s also important to be aware that some vehicles may have different types of glass in different window locations, such as tempered glass in the rear side windows and laminated glass in the front.
Being prepared for a vehicle emergency dramatically increases your chances of survival, especially if you and your passengers become trapped. AAA strongly advises all drivers to take the following preparedness steps:
Emergency Preparedness: Key Steps for Vehicle Safety
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Know Your Glass Type: Memorize whether your vehicle’s side windows are tempered or laminated. If your car has tempered glass windows, these will be your primary escape points in an emergency where a car window glass breaking tool will be effective. Remember that standard car window glass breaking tools will not work on laminated glass.
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Equip Your Vehicle with a Car Window Glass Breaking Tool: Keep a reliable car window glass breaking tool in your car. Choose a tool you are comfortable using, have practiced with (if possible and safe), and can easily access in an emergency. Spring-loaded tools are often compact and can be attached to a keychain for immediate access. Consider mounting the tool to your dashboard or steering column to ensure it remains within reach even during a collision.
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Develop and Communicate an Escape Plan: Pre-plan your escape strategy and discuss it with all vehicle occupants. This proactive approach will minimize confusion and wasted time during an emergency. Also, establish a backup plan in case your car window glass breaking tool is unusable or ineffective.
The S-U-R-E Method for Vehicle Escape
In a trapped vehicle situation, remember the S-U-R-E method to guide your escape:
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Stay Calm: While speed is essential, maintain composure. Act deliberately and cautiously to ensure everyone’s safe exit from the vehicle.
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Unbuckle Seat Belts: Immediately unbuckle all seat belts and ensure everyone is ready to evacuate the vehicle when the opportunity arises.
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Roll Down or Break a Window: Attempt to roll down a window first. However, be mindful that if the vehicle is sinking, opening a window will cause water to rush in rapidly. If the window is inoperable and you have tempered glass, use your car window glass breaking tool to shatter a side window for escape. If submerged and windows are laminated, remember:
- If windows cannot be opened or broken due to lamination, move to the rear of the vehicle or locate any available air pocket. Stay with the air pocket until the vehicle is completely filled with water. Once equalized pressure is achieved, you may be able to open a door and escape.
- Hammer-style car window glass breaking tools may be significantly harder to use effectively underwater compared to spring-loaded tools.
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Exit the Vehicle: Once a window is broken or a door is opened, exit the vehicle swiftly and move everyone to a safe location.
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Call 911: After ensuring immediate safety, contact emergency services. While calling 911 is typically the first step in many emergencies, in situations like vehicle submersion or fire, immediate escape takes precedence.
“Knowledge is a powerful tool in emergency situations,” concludes Nielsen. “The more drivers understand about their vehicles, including the type of glass in their side windows, and the effectiveness of car window glass breaking tools, the better equipped they will be to handle unexpected emergencies.”
For a comprehensive list of vehicles equipped with laminated side windows, refer to this resource: Laminated Glass Vehicle List.
