Escape A Stuck Elevator

Tools

By KSFYAction News

As the City of Sioux Falls continues to grow, so does the number of elevators. But would you know what to do if trapped inside one?

Sioux Falls Fire Rescue says it happens more than you think. On a regular basis, Captain Todd Lowe says they're rescuing people trapped in the tight quarters of an elevator. He said, "The confined space that they have makes them uneasy. They don't feel they're in control and they panic."

If the elevators doors close and you aren't moving, don't worry. Lowe says almost all elevators have ways of communicating with the outside, including emergency bells and phones. An operator will dispatch the fire department to rescue you. Try to tell them what floor you're on. Lowe says they can get people out in minutes with a key that opens elevator doors.

Just this year, Sioux Falls Fire saved more than ten people from inside elevators. The number is expected to increase.

Many times, Lowe says people make the mistake of thinking they can rescue themselves. So don't try to pry the doors open or climb up the shaft. He says just remember to take a deep breath and know that help will arrive. Lowe said, "You just have to have faith that it's going to work and remain calm."

Do you have a news tip?
Contact Action News by phone at (605) 336-9999 or send us an
e-mail.

View comments

The following comments do not necessarily represent the views of KSFY.com. Users have agreed to these terms and in doing so accept full responsibility for their comments. Moderation is limited.

Add a comment

Name:

Comment: 1000 Characters Left

KSFY.com and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the above comments or other interaction among the users. We reserve the right to screen, refuse to post, remove or edit user-generated content at any time and for any or no reason in our absolute and sole discretion without prior notice, although we have no duty to do so or to monitor any Public Forum.

I have read and agree to the terms

Hide comments

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

On Demand

Stock Quotes

AP Video