Vehicle glass helps protect occupants, but its construction varies. Windshields generally use laminated glass, while side windows may be tempered or laminated. Laminated glass can remain held together after cracking, so hitting it harder does not guarantee an escape opening. Emergency plans must account for the vehicle and the situation; no glass-breaking method works in every case.
A hot-car emergency, a sinking vehicle and a vehicle fire need different responses. The guidance below replaces a universal glass-breaking procedure with situation-specific precautions.
Know Your Vehicle Before an Emergency
Check each window’s glass marking in advance and ask the vehicle manufacturer if its type is unclear. Read your owner’s manual and learn any manual door releases; their locations and operation vary. Do not assume that losing electrical power means glass must be broken.
Do not rely on a headrest or improvised objects as escape tools. AAA’s escape-tool testing found that some purpose-built tools broke tempered glass, but none of the tested tools opened laminated glass. A suitable escape tool may help with a verified tempered side window that will not open; do not rely on it to open a laminated window or a typical windshield. Keep the tool secured within reach and follow its instructions.
A Child or Pet in a Hot Car
If you find a child alone in a vehicle, call 911 and get help immediately. Check whether the child is responsive. NHTSA advises attempting to reach an unresponsive child who appears to be in distress, even if entry requires breaking a window. Do not wait until after breaking glass to report the emergency. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
A pet showing heat distress in a hot vehicle also needs emergency help: call 911 and follow responders’ instructions.
If Your Vehicle Is Sinking
Unfasten seat belts and immediately try to open a side window while it can still operate. Help children out first, then follow through the window. Do not delay escape to make a phone call or wait for the vehicle to fill with water. Contact 911 once you are out and safe. See the University of Manitoba’s vehicle-submersion guidance for preparedness information.
If Your Vehicle Catches Fire
Pull over safely, stop the engine and get everyone out. Move at least 100 feet away from the vehicle and away from traffic, then call 911. Do not return to the vehicle or try to fight the fire yourself. Follow U.S. Fire Administration vehicle-fire guidance.
Prepare and share a vehicle-specific exit plan before an emergency. If you are outside the vehicle, protect your own safety and follow emergency responders’ directions.
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