What should you do if your car is sinking?

If you find yourself driving or falling into a body of water in Kentucky, you have literal seconds to act quickly and get yourself out of this situation. Because of that, you should know exactly what steps you need to take that will get you out of your car and into safety as soon as possible.

The first thing to keep in mind, as stated by Popular Mechanics, is that you will have around 30 to 60 seconds to escape your vehicle as it sinks. This countdown will start the literal moment your car hits the water, so you must move quickly. This can make all of the difference. Because of that, you shouldn’t ever pause to call the police. Don’t reach for your phone at all. Instead, follow these steps:

• Unbuckle
• Open or break a side window
• Help your passengers
• Swim out

If you’re driving alone, you only have to worry about yourself. Your passengers should all break their own windows, though you may need to help anyone who is physically impaired, or children.

Don’t try to break the windshield, as it will be too thick to crack. Don’t try to open the door either, since the water pressure will make it difficult or impossible. Instead, try to unroll the side window. If the electric mechanic has shorted out due to the water, then strike the window with a heavy object, your elbow, or your shoe. Hit the center and swim through as soon as the glass breaks.

Above all, remain calm. The more you panic, the more time you lose, and in this situation, time is everything.