How to survive an airplane crash

In the unlikely event you're ever in a plane crash, these tips will dramatically improve your odds of walking away from it alive.

You Will Need

* An aisle seat, or one close to it
* Long-sleeved pants and top, and flat closed-toe shoes
* A smoke hood or a wet washcloth

Step 1. Book a good seat

Book a seat in the exit row or within five rows of it. People in those seats have the highest survival rates.

Step 2. Dress for escape

Wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt made of non-flammable material, like denim or cotton, and flat, sturdy, closed-toe shoes. You want clothes that don’t restrict movement, but also offer some protection from flames, flying debris, and the elements.

Step 3. Bring a smoke hood

Bring a smoke hood, or even just a wet washcloth sealed in a plastic bag. Most crash victims survive impact, but die of smoke inhalation.

Step 4. Memorize the layout

Once aboard, count the seats between you and the nearest front and rear emergency exit. You want to be able to feel your way should the cabin fill with smoke.

Step 5. Brace yourself

When instructed, brace yourself for an emergency landing. With your feet on the floor, cross your arms on the seat in front of you and lower your head onto them. If there is no seat in front, hug your knees. Try to remain that way until the plane comes to a complete stop.

Step 6. Know how to undo your seatbelt

It may sound stupid, but remind yourself that airplane seat belts open by lifting a buckle, not pushing a button.

Step 7. Stoop, don’t crawl

If the cabin fills with smoke, forget what you learned about staying close to the floor in a fire. In a commercial jetliner, you want to stoop, not crawl.

Step 8. Run like heck

Once off the plane, run for your life — literally. You want to get away from the plane in case it explodes.