Taking a flight is a far safer way to travel than driving a car, the number of injuries and fatalities associated with traffic accidents on the ground far outweigh such tragedies in the air. However, whether because of skewed media coverage of dramatic plane crashes, or ingrained apprehension about the act of flying. Regardless of your belief about air travel, implementing several of following safety tips you can help keep you injury free during your flight.
- Choose large planes, large airlines, don't but into myths about the risky nature of large airlines or large aircraft, while it is true that an accident involving a large plane may result in a higher body count, this is due solely to the larger number of people on the plane, and not due to safety problems with the plane itself.
- Fly direct, the most accident prone phases of a flight are takeoff, climb, descent and landing, the more instances of these you encounter during a particular trip, the more likely you are to be involved in an accident or crash. Flying direct insures that you are only exposed to these risky phases one.
- Be always aware of the overhead luggage, Many people are so preoccupied with possible engine trouble or pilot error that they forget about a serious risk of injury sitting just over their heads, heavy luggage. Overhead bins can only contain so much weight, and during turbulence, bin doors may come open, dropping heavy cases and bags onto passengers. Keeping the size and weight of overhead luggage down prevents injury to yourself and your fellow passengers.
- You should limit your alcohol intake, because the low pressure in airplane cabins, the alcohol has a greater effect on your body. Though many people like to relax with a drink when flying, keep in mind that doing so could seriously impair your judgment and reflexes in the case of an emergency.
- Lastly always keep your seatbelt fastened, it seems like common sense, but many people tend to unbuckle their seat belts as soon as the Fasten Seatbelt light turns off. While airplane seat belts may be uncomfortable, they are just as important of a safety feature as they are on a car.
The key to safe traveling in any area is situational awareness. Distractions because of luggage, children, hotel, personnel, strangers and more can put you at risk. Always know your surroundings and stay in control of every situation.