How to Prepare for and Exit a Cessna 172 in the Event of a Crash Landing

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Stay Calm.

   Upon notification of a failure and the potential for a crash landing – Remain Calm and listen to all commands given by the pilot. , To fasten your seat belt pull down on the end of the tether., If your aircraft is equipped with a shoulder belt, secure it beside your hip and confirm that the belt runs from your hip across to your opposite shoulder.,, Is there anything that could present a potential hazard? Stow or jettison any articles that could cause harm to either you or the aircraft.
   
   If you are wearing eyeglasses take them off and stow them in a pocket., In a C172 there are two main doors, one located on each side of the aircraft., There is a cargo door located on the left side (if seated in a forward facing seat) of the aircraft that can be kicked out if needed.
   
   Both the front and back windows in a C172 are made out of Plexiglas, both these windows can be kicked out., This item will be folded into a square and placed in front of your face for cushion just prior to touchdown., Do not be worried you will not be sucked out and the door will just bang against the cabin., (Refer to step # 7 for additional information) Clasp your hands together and with you clasped hands hold your head in between your knees with your elbows pointing towards the floor of the aircraft., For positions with shoulder belts simply cross your arms across your chest as if making an “X” and hold each shoulder with a hand., Maintain the brace position until the aircraft comes to a complete stop., You have already noted your closes exit but confirm there are no hazards outside before exiting.
   
   It is extremely important that you get out of the aircraft quickly but you do not want to step out of the aircraft into fire or oil.
   
   If able bring the medical kit and fire extinguisher with you., This is the meeting spot where everyone will go to confirm who’s made it out and coordinate the rescue of anyone else if needed.,,, which is normally located in the back of the aircraft.
   
   Simply flick the switch to the on position.,, This will save your life and the lives of your passengers.,,,, Make sure to tell someone where you’re going and what route your will be taking.,, Know the safety procedures for the aircraft you’re flying in and follow them.,,, This is a set of instructions that I the writer was taught on how to prepare and exit a Cessna 172 in the event of a crash landing.
   
   This set of instructions is not aircraft specific and the user should look to the aircraft operating manual for specific emergency procedures.
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   Step 2: Confirm that your lap and shoulder belt (if installed) is tight.

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   Step 3: Confirm the lap belt is around your hips and not your abdominal area.

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   Step 4: Confirm that your seat is in the most upright position and that it is locked in place.

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   Step 5: Look around you!

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   Step 6: Locate your closest exit.

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   Step 7: NOTE: (Additional emergency exits.)

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   Step 8: If possible remove a heavy sweater or coat.

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   Step 9: If you are sitting in the co-pilots seat the pilot will request at 200 feet (61.0 m) above the ground that you open your door and lock it open.

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    Step 10: On the final approach (or approximately 100 ft above the ground) resume the brace position for the seat you are in.

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    Step 11: NOTE: This position if for seats without shoulder belts.

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    Step 12: The aircraft will now contact the ground.

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    Step 13: Exit the aircraft.

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    Step 14: Meet the other passengers at the back of the aircraft.

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    Step 15: Move away from the aircraft!

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    Step 16: Call the Emergency Services for help.

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    Step 17: Turn on the E.L.T.

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    Step 18: • If the pilot does not provide you a safety briefing

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    Step 19: REQUEST ONE!

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    Step 20: • Read any all safety placards and brochures.

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    Step 21: • Before the aircraft starts make sure you know how all doors operate and where your closest exit is.

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    Step 22: • Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

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    Step 23: • Bring a cell phone with you on every flight.

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    Step 24: Warnings:

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    Step 25: • Flying for recreation is fun but can be dangerous.

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    Step 26: • Do not go flying if you are under the influence of Alcohol or Drugs.

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    Step 27: • Inform your pilot if you have any medical conditions.

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    Step 28: • This is not a Transport Canada approved safety document.

Detailed Guide

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