The worst nightmare for claustrophobic people — and most people, really — is being stuck in an elevator. In an emergency situation like this one comes some important do’s and don’ts. Check them out to be prepared if this ever happens to you.

Bright Side has prepared some important notes on how to behave in a situation like this and how to escape the elevator if necessary.

Stay calm.

In any emergency situation, anybody will tell you that panicking can be far more destructive than the disaster itself. While being locked in an elevator:

Call for help.

Before doing anything, try to call for help using the button that is marked with the bell. However, if the electricity doesn’t work, this may not be an option.

People outside cannot only call for help, but they can tell you your precise location in case you’ll need to escape the elevator by yourself.

Find the light source.

If the electricity is off, try to find a light source — it may calm down the sense of panic and help you navigate better since it will help you see the buttons.

Call reception.

If the call button doesn’t wok, do not rush to a DIY escape. First, try calling the reception desk of the building or an emergency number, like “911” — it is largely used in the US and other countries for emergencies, but you’d better check your own country’s specific emergency number. It can also be found on the wall of the elevator or on the button board.

Try buttons to open the door.

If the elevator is stuck on one of the floors and just won’t open:

Have patience.

If help is on the way or you know somebody is coming to get you, try to occupy yourself with the following:

Push the “stop” button.

Now, if there is a medical or other valid type of emergency, that means you may need to escape the elevator on your own.

This lets you know that the elevator won’t start moving while you are on your way out.

Make an escape plan.

First of all, make sure the elevator is not in between floors or in any other awkward position.

Then do the following:

We hope you found this article helpful and that you never find yourself in such a horrible situation. Suggest in the comments which situations you would love to read about escaping next?