Introduction
Let’s be honest with ourselves, being stuck in an elevator is probably the worst scenario. Regardless if you’re in a high rise or an elevator in your home, that sudden unplanned stop can feel quite frightening. However, we will take solace in the fact that you’re unlikely to be in an old elevator. You are most likely in a modern elevator where safety has been designed with layers and layers of safety.
We have made strides in home elevator safety features today, thanks to the ability to back-up power and emergency alarms but still, today’s modern elevators are designed to manage unexpected situations without putting you at risk.
Recognizing what to do will help give you peace of mind and allow you to take control of the unfortunate situation you find yourself in. In this blog, we hope to give you the simple, smart steps to follow if you’re stuck in an elevator so there is no panic or uncertainty, just simple, safe actions, that anyone can follow, even in very small places.
Stay Calm First: Why Panic Doesn’t Help
The first and best option? Just breathe. Believe it or not, staying calm will seriously help when you are stuck in an elevator. Most people have anxiety in confined spaces – that is okay. The fact is, modern elevators are very safe, even when they come to a halt.
Inside every Nibav or any other home elevator, safety systems are working diligently in the background at all times – there are emergency brakes, backup power, and communication buttons for assistance that can all be the things keeping you secure in an elevator. These are not theoretical systems – they are verified and manufactured for both realistic scenarios, like getting stuck in the elevator, and emergency scenarios.
Panicking clouds your thinking and can make the situation feel worse than it is. Instead, remind yourself: you are not in danger. Help is always just a button away.
Take slow breaths, lean against the wall if you need to, and stay focused. This moment will pass — and you’re handling it like a pro.
Elevator Emergency Steps: What To Do Next
Now that you’re calm, it’s time to take action — the smart, safe kind. If you’re wondering what the proper elevator emergency steps are, here’s your go-to guide.
Step 1: Press the Emergency Button
Every modern elevator has an emergency button on the control panel. Press it firmly. This alerts the elevator company or building’s support team that you need assistance. On many systems, it will connect you to a live operator.
Step 2: Use the Intercom or Phone (if available)
Some elevators have built-in phones or intercoms. Pick up and speak clearly. Provide basic info: how many people are with you, any medical issues, and your location (if you know it).
Step 3: Do NOT Try to Force the Doors Open
This is one of the most important rules in home elevator safety. Forcing doors open can cause more harm than good — and in some cases, shut down the system entirely. Trust the experts to handle the rescue.
Step 4: Use the Alarm to Alert Others Nearby
If the elevator is in a home, press the alarm button to notify others. In larger buildings, this can alert security or neighbors. You’re not alone — help is likely closer than you think.
Step 5: Sit Down and Conserve Energy
If you’re going to be waiting a little while, sit down, breathe slowly, and relax. There’s no need to stand or stress. If you’re with kids or elderly family members, reassure them. You’ve already taken the right emergency elevator steps.
Step 6: Call Emergency Services (if needed)
If no help comes through the elevator’s system, use your mobile phone to call local emergency services. Provide clear details about your location and the situation.
Following these simple but effective steps ensures your safety and gives emergency responders what they need to reach you fast. That’s the power of being informed — and calm — during an unexpected elevator stop.
What NOT To Do During an Elevator Emergency
Knowing what to do is important, but knowing what not to do can be just as critical. In stressful moments, people sometimes act out of panic. Here’s what to avoid to keep yourself safe and support overall home elevator safety:
Don’t Try to Climb Out
Even if the doors are slightly open, never attempt to squeeze out. The elevator could start moving again unexpectedly, which is extremely dangerous. Wait for trained professionals to assist.
Don’t Jump or Bounce Around
It might seem like a way to “get it moving,” but jumping can confuse the elevator’s safety system. Stay still and grounded — it helps the system reset and keeps you safe.
Don’t Tamper With Buttons or Panels
Pressing random buttons or trying to remove panels might do more harm than good. It can interrupt the normal emergency process or trigger false signals.
Don’t Scream or Bang Excessively
Modern elevators are soundproofed to a degree. Instead, use the alarm or intercom, then save your energy. Calm communication is far more effective than loud panic.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you help maintain home elevator safety and make rescue faster and smoother.
How Modern Elevators Keep You Safe
Here’s the truth: getting stuck in an elevator feels scary, but it’s rarely dangerous — especially if you’re riding in a modern elevator. Today’s elevator systems are built with advanced safety in mind, and that’s especially true for home installations.
At Nibav, home elevator safety is more than a feature — it’s the foundation. These elevators include smart systems like:
- Automatic brakes that activate instantly in case of power failure
- Battery backup to keep lights and ventilation running
- Emergency call buttons are linked directly to support teams
- Smooth stop/start mechanisms that prevent sudden jolts
One of the key reasons people choose a modern elevator is because of how much safer and smarter they are compared to older systems.
Plus, home elevators are enclosed, well-ventilated, and designed to handle temporary power issues without putting you at risk. So even if you do get stuck, the system is already working to keep you comfortable and protected.
It’s okay to feel a little nervous, but when your elevator is designed with your safety first, you can relax and trust the process.
Conclusion
At Nibav, we don’t just sell elevators; we sell peace of mind. With over 12,000+ installations across 12+ countries, we are the global leaders in residential elevators.
Our team consists of professionals who are able to deliver world-class engineering, local expertise, and personalized service straight to your front door. Our mission is to accompany you from the first time you make contact, to final installation, and long after! We are here for you, to support you every step of the way whilst ensuring that the experience you have with Nibav air-driven elevators is smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Each one of our Nibav lifts is a promise to our customers of home elevator safety, thoughtful design, and dependable service. So whether you’re considering an upgrade or making preparations for the future of loved ones, you’re undoubtedly in the very best hands.
If you need assistance or are looking to learn more about the options available to you, contact our UAE team today for your free consultation and find out why thousands of customers have come to trust Nibav to elevate their day-to-day lifestyle.
Because with Nibav, safety isn’t a feature, it’s standard.