Training Fliers for a Plane Crash

British Airways (BA) is getting a head start by putting its passengers in the face of a mock disaster. But as smoke poured into the plane’s cabin, all activities came to a screeching halt, and the captain shouted “Evacuate!” passengers on board did what most people naturally do—freeze.

The “emergency,” which used a theatrical smoke to simulate a real situation was just part of the airline’s safety course. Sixteen travellers selected from the company’s leading corporate customers and advertising agencies participated in the drill. The participants had a taste of what it is like to jump down on evacuation slides, scamper out of smoke-filled cabins, and open heavy aeroplane doors. More important, they also learned how to save lives with the help of the following crash procedure:
1. Pre-Flight Plan – Be sure to check how far you are from the exits. This way, it would be easier to reach the doors in case you are crawling blindly on the floor under thick layers of smoke.
2. Impact Preparation – Since studies have shown how the brace position really works, you should do it properly. It is also important to keep your fingers unbroken so you would not have a difficult time unfastening the seat belt.
3. Path Lights – When you see red lights, please do not think right away that you are in danger. The colour is not meant to signal caution. It is there for practical reasons, as it makes it is easier to see through a smoke.
4. Over-Wing Door – Be sure to stand up when opening this exit since it can hit your head once you have pulled the handle and it comes cascading in.
5. Escape Slide – This escape instrument can give you friction burns, so do not forget to cross your hands on the chest and hold your collar. When jumping straight out of the plane, lean slightly forward.

According to drill instructors, although most of the accidents are survivable, death or injuries can also result due to hesitation, which is also the same element that keeps people from getting a car loan that suits their financial capacity. Indeed, while some human instincts may help, others can hinder escape and survival. In order to prevent fighting, shoving, pushing, and any other form of panic, familiarity and practice can certainly help.