Getting stuck in a lift is a situation that can happen unexpectedly. Whether it’s due to a power failure, mechanical fault, or an overload, being trapped inside an elevator can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, panicking won’t help staying calm and taking the right steps will.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what to do if you ever find yourself stuck in a lift, how to ensure your safety, and when to seek emergency assistance.
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Panic
The first and most important thing to do when you’re stuck in an elevator is to remain calm. Panicking can make the situation worse and may cause breathing difficulties, anxiety, or unnecessary stress.
Why Staying Calm is Important:
✔️ Helps you think clearly
✔️ Prevents hyperventilation or stress attacks
✔️ Allows you to make rational decisions
What You Should Do:
✅ Take deep breaths to control anxiety
✅ Reassure others if you’re not alone
✅ Avoid pressing buttons randomly
2. Press the Emergency Button or Use the Intercom
Most modern elevators have an emergency button that connects you to building security or maintenance teams.
Steps to Follow:
🔹 Locate and press the emergency button
🔹 If there’s an intercom system, use it to communicate
🔹 Speak clearly and describe your situation
If There’s No Response:
✔️ Try calling emergency services using your mobile phone
✔️ If there’s a Wi-Fi connection, send a message or alert
3. Call for Help Using Your Phone
If pressing the emergency button doesn’t work, try using your mobile phone to call for help.
🔹 Call Building Security – Look for a contact number on the lift panel
🔹 Dial Emergency Services – If you’re in a high-rise building, firefighters or local authorities can assist
🔹 Send a Text Message – If there’s poor signal, SMS or WhatsApp messages may still work
🚨 Pro Tip: Keep your phone fully charged when entering an elevator, especially in older buildings.
4. Avoid Forcing the Doors Open
Many people’s first instinct when stuck in an elevator is to force the doors open. Do not do this.
Why?
❌ It can cause further damage to the lift
❌ You might get injured if the lift starts moving suddenly
❌ The safest way out is through professional rescue
🔹 Instead, wait for trained technicians to assist.
5. Observe the Elevator’s Condition
While waiting for help, observe your surroundings. This information may be useful when explaining the situation to rescuers.
🔍 Things to Check:
✔️ Is the lift stuck between floors?
✔️ Are the lights on or off?
✔️ Is there proper ventilation?
If the lift has emergency lights, it means the backup power is working, and help should arrive soon.
6. Conserve Energy and Air Supply
If you’re trapped for an extended period, you need to conserve your energy.
What You Can Do:
✔️ Sit down to reduce stress on your body
✔️ Avoid unnecessary talking or shouting
✔️ If it’s hot, loosen your clothing slightly for better air circulation
🚨 Pro Tip: Most lifts have small ventilation gaps, so don’t worry about running out of air.
7. Communicate with Others in the Lift
If you’re stuck with other people, work together to stay calm and assign tasks:
✔️ One person should press the emergency button
✔️ Another can call security or emergency services
✔️ Everyone should support each other to stay calm
💡 Remember: Panicking can make the situation worse, especially in a crowded lift.
8. What If You’re Alone in the Lift?
If you’re stuck alone in an elevator, follow these steps:
🔹 Press the emergency button and wait for a response
🔹 Try calling someone for help
🔹 Stay calm and avoid unnecessary movement
Most modern lifts are equipped with safety measures, meaning they won’t fall suddenly.
9. Know When to Seek Emergency Help
If you’ve been stuck for an extended time (30+ minutes) with no response, it’s time to escalate the situation.
Call emergency services if:
🚨 The lift is overheating and affecting breathing
🚨 There are medical emergencies (e.g., asthma, heart issues)
🚨 The lift shows signs of malfunction (sparks, unusual noises)
10. What to Do After Being Rescued?
Once you’re safely out of the lift, take a moment to assess your condition.
✔️ Inform security about your experience
✔️ Check for injuries if you fell or hit something
✔️ Avoid using the same lift until maintenance confirms it’s safe
🚨 Report the issue to the building management, especially if it’s a recurring problem.
Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
Getting stuck in a lift can be stressful, but knowing the right steps can help you stay safe and get help quickly.
✔️ Stay calm and avoid panicking
✔️ Press the emergency button and use the intercom
✔️ Call for help if needed
✔️ Avoid forcing the doors open
✔️ Conserve energy while waiting for rescue
Proactive safety measures—such as always carrying a charged phone and checking lift conditions before stepping in—can reduce risks in the future.
💡 Have you ever been stuck in a lift? Share your experience in the comments!
