3 Facts About Elevators That Can Make It Easier To Use One When You Have Claustrophobia
If you suffer from claustrophobia and therefore being in an elevator seems challenging or even impossible you are not alone. Approximately 2.5% of people in the United States share that fear of small, enclosed spaces. If you are tired of taking several flights of stairs and are ready to try to use an elevator, the following facts can provide you with the extra boost you need to overcome your fear.
#1-Many Elevators Have An Emergency Phone Inside Them
If you watch television or movies where people are stuck in an elevator for hours at a time, it can add to your fear of being inside one. That can be especially true if you think that the metal casing of an elevator will disrupt the signal strength of your cell phone. However, it is important to remember that many elevators today are equipped with a wired telephone, so you can still call for emergency assistance.
#2-The Safety System Has Features To Protect You From Fires
If your fear of being in small spaces relates to the possibility of being trapped because of a fire in the building, the following information will be particularly useful. For instance, if a fire is detected in the building, even if you are not aware of it when you step into the elevator, the unit is programmed to automatically return to the first floor.
That means that you will be able to evacuate the building faster. Obviously, you should not get into the elevator if a fire is going on, but if it occurs after you have entered, you will be safe. Once the elevator reaches the bottom floor, it will remain there until the fire marshal or other authorize representative allows it to return to its normal functions.
#3-Regular Inspections and Certifications of Each Elevator Are Required
It is important to note that there are laws in place in each state that pertain to the regular examination and certification of safety for public elevators. As a result, being stuck in one because of a malfunction is not that common. If you are one of the people it happens to, today's technology will often allow you to get out quickly.
Those inspections will often include, but are not limited to:
- Examining the brake lines that control the unit
- Alarms indicating safety concerns
- Automatic stop buttons
- Appropriate door closings
- Intercoms
In conclusion, elevators are typically safe and efficient ways to change floors within a building. Modern technology has made them easy to use and very safe, so if you are ready to overcome some of your claustrophobia, an elevator may be the ideal way to do so. If necessary, be sure to speak with your therapist about your fears and your monumental decision prior to making that choice.
For more information, contact a company like Golden State Elevator Service Inc.