Vehicle Submersions
Lessons in Vehicle Escape
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that an 
average more than 300 vehicle occupants die in submersion type crashes each year, Florida leads the nation in such deaths. Every year approximately 4,800 crashes in the Sunshine State end with a car in the water, causing at least 57 fatalities.
Seconds can mean the difference between life and death.
So what is one to do if they are submerged? In Florida, it is especially important to prepare for and have a plan if your vehicle ends up in canal or other water source. You will need a tool that will allow you to escape your vehicle as you will most likely not able to use the door or open the windows. Look for a dual-purpose tool that not only breaks glass, but cuts seat belt webbing too.
To avoid panic, the escape procedure must be simple, quick, and easy to remember —POGO.
- Pop/release Seatbelt(s); release children from restraints and bring them close to an adult who can assist in their escape.
- Open or break windows.
- Get Out – children should be pushed out of the window first and followed immediately (climb atop the car and then call for help or get to shore).
