When stuck in an elevator...

It's unfortunate but many have been there. Being trapped in an elevator might seem like a helpless situation, but here's how you can deal with it

Last month, actor Govinda was stranded in an elevator for 15 minutes due to an overload of people while heading for the launch of his music album. And he is not the only one. In recent times, there have been many instances of people being stalled in a lift. Getting stuck in an elevator is surely an unfortunate experience. Here's what you should do if you get trapped in one.

Push the 'Door Open' button: If you are near the landing, the door will open. You can slowly and carefully step out of the elevator. Be sure to watch your step as the elevator floor may, or may not, be level with the landing.

Press the call button: If the door does not open, press the alarm button and wait for someone to respond. Most elevators, these days, have a two-way speaker system or telephone that will allow for communication between you and the building or rescue personnel. "Do not be alarmed if you cannot be heard or if the phone does not work. Some phones are designed to only receive calls," says a technician from a city-based elevator design firm.

Stay calm: It is very essential that you do not panic under these circumstances. It will only make matters worse. If you feel claustrophobic, distract your mind by concentrating on your breathing and counting numbers backwards if it calms you down. Even if the air temperature feels warm, there is plenty of air circulating in the elevator and its hoistway, so it is best to relax.

Take these precautionary measures to ensure a smooth elevator ride
- Watch your step when boarding the elevator. It may not be perfectly level with the floor.
- Don't attempt to get in or stop closing doors, wait for the next ride.
- Stand clear of the doors — keep clothes and carry-ons away from the opening.
- If in an empty elevator, stand next to the elevator wall.
- Small children should be accompanied by an adult.
- Societies using old lifts should install adequate security measures and opt for maintenance services once a month.