What Happens to a Body Underwater in a Car?
When a car sinks underwater with people inside, the passengers face a deadly combination of hazards. Water pressure, lack of oxygen, and the weight of the vehicle can all lead to death within minutes.
Water Pressure
As a car sinks, the water pressure increases rapidly. At just 33 feet (10 meters) below the surface, the pressure is twice that at sea level. This pressure can crush the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. The deeper the car sinks, the greater the pressure becomes. At 100 feet (30 meters) below the surface, the pressure is 4 times that at sea level. This pressure can crush the skull and other bones in the body.
Lack of Oxygen
The air inside a car is quickly depleted when the car sinks underwater. Within a few minutes, the passengers will begin to suffocate. The lack of oxygen can also lead to brain damage and death.
Weight of the Vehicle
The weight of the car can also be deadly. As the car sinks, it becomes more difficult for the passengers to escape. The weight of the vehicle can also crush the passengers’ bodies.
How to Survive in a Car Underwater
If you find yourself in a car that is sinking underwater, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of survival:
1. Stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse.
2. Get out of the car as quickly as possible. If you can, open a window or door and swim out.
3. If you can’t get out of the car, stay in an air pocket. There may be a small pocket of air trapped in the car. Stay in this pocket until help arrives.
4. Try to conserve oxygen. Take shallow breaths and avoid talking.
5. Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia. Water conducts heat away from the body much faster than air. If you are in the water for an extended period of time, you may develop hypothermia.
What to Do if Someone is Trapped in a Car Underwater
If you see someone trapped in a car underwater, there are a few things you can do to help:
1. Call 911. The fire department or coast guard will be able to send divers to rescue the person.
2. Try to get the person out of the car yourself. If you are a strong swimmer, you may be able to break a window or door and swim out.
3. Stay with the person and keep them calm. If you can’t get the person out of the car, stay with them and keep them calm. This will help to conserve oxygen and prevent them from panicking.
Conclusion
If you find yourself in a car that is sinking underwater, it is important to stay calm and take action quickly. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of survival.
