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Elevator emergencies: what to do if trapped

Emergency numbers differ by country. This page uses 911, the number for the United States and Canada. Many other countries use 112, 999, or another number. Find the number for your country.

Elevators are engineered with multiple mechanical cables and automatic braking safety systems. Being trapped during a power outage or mechanical failure is stressful, but staying inside the car is safe.

Do this now

  1. Stay calm. Elevator cars have ventilation shafts and will not run out of oxygen.
  2. Press the ALARM button or press the emergency CALL button on the elevator control panel.
  3. Use your mobile phone or the elevator intercom to call building maintenance or emergency services (911).
  4. Stay inside the car. Never attempt to pry open the doors or climb out through ceiling hatches.
  5. Sit down or lean against the wall if you feel dizzy or anxious.

Why you should NEVER try to exit a stalled elevator car

Attempting to force doors open or climb out between floors is the single most dangerous action during an elevator emergency. If the elevator suddenly moves while a person is climbing out, severe or fatal crushing injuries occur.

  • Wait for trained fire department personnel or elevator technicians to shut down main electrical power before exiting.
  • Elevator doors are held closed by mechanical interlocks that require special technician keys to open safely.

Step by step safety while waiting for rescue

  1. Locate the control panel: Find the yellow or red alarm button or telephone icon.
  2. Speak clearly into the intercom: Give the building operator or 911 dispatcher your exact building address, elevator car number (if labeled), and current floor position if known.
  3. Use your phone light: Use your smartphone flashlight to illuminate the car if lights go out.
  4. Keep children calm: Explain that technicians are coming to fix the lift and play simple mental games to pass time.

What to do if power fails

During a power outage, modern elevators lower automatically to the nearest floor, open their doors, and shut down. If the car stays stuck between floors, battery-powered emergency lighting and alarm buttons will remain active.

... note "Elevator safety certification" Elevators are inspected regularly by municipal safety authorities and certified for weight capacities. Never exceed posted passenger weight limits.