[Calubi]

What would you do if you had a wreck, a fire started, and your door was damaged enough to be stuck closed?

I've been thinking about this scenario since I discovered that my helmet does not fit through the Camaro's side windows. I didn't give it much thought until that discovery, thinking that I could just slide out the window in such an emergency scenario. But now the question is bothering me.

Granted, the chance of this scenario occurring in an HPDE event is very low. But I like to be prepared and that includes planning through any sort of emergency.

[Kmeleon]

Go out the other door. Short of that, pray the car isn't on fire.

[Redlinez]

I noticed that years ago and I wear a XXL helmet........

[cdrptrks]

I would have to take off my helmet to fit out the window if both doors wouldn't open.

You could also keep an emergency glass break hammer in the glove box or center console to assist with breaking out the windshield or rear window (although it is designed for side windows afaik) but it would be hard to grab if upside down.

https://www.amazon.com/Lifehammer-Br.../dp/B000BN3A4Y

[kropscamaro16]

haha yup im a xxl too hat size is 8 id probably just unbuckle and kick out the front window but that wouldnt be fun

[Timbo-1LE]

Thanks for the tip.. I need to check, as my 2015 snell is significantly larger than the 2010 helmet...

[TrackClub]

Helmet off, or head to the trunk. It has an escape latch on the inside.

[apexit53]

the gt4 cars have an escape hatch for this very reason lol

[G61LE]

Originally Posted by Calubi

What would you do if you had a wreck, a fire started, and your door was damaged enough to be stuck closed?

I've been thinking about this scenario since I discovered that my helmet does not fit through the Camaro's side windows. I didn't give it much thought until that discovery, thinking that I could just slide out the window in such an emergency scenario. But now the question is bothering me.

Granted, the chance of this scenario occurring in an HPDE event is very low. But I like to be prepared and that includes planning through any sort of emergency.

WOW, never thought about that. I am an HPDE junkie and definitely drive within my limitations, however, you can never predict mechanical failure, or some knuckle head with bigger balls than brains. With all the airbags we have, I am not as much concerned about a collision as I am a fire. So, I guess I will be structuring a new exit strategy.

[supersportss]

install a fire system.

[Coded4SS]

Thought about this. I have a size large helmet and it's not going through. Infact if I'm not straight my chest torso can't fit through the opening. I'd imagine I'll kick the windshield out.

[foshjowler]

It was one of the first things someone said after I bought the car. I brought the helmet with me to make sure I could fit in the car, but not through the window. The new Supra is the same way supposedly. I guess the helmet would have to come off first, or go through the passenger door if the driver door couldn't open. Others are talking about the trunk, but I'm not sure I would favor that over taking the helmet off first in the case of the fire. Seems like it would take a while

[Calubi]

Interesting suggestions. I would think the trunk would be difficult unless you've removed the rear seats. Windshield sounds like a good option. Always have options!

[HawkeyeMike]

Like the nerd that I am, let's talk about all the possibilities. If we break this down into the possible scenarios, there are two kinds of incidents: those in which you need to exit the vehicle quickly, and those where you don't. If you don't, take your time, get your bearings, and if you can't get out the door, take off your helmet and go through a window or trunk or windshield, whichever seems easiest. Or wait until someone can extract you safely. No issues there for us.
But for those incidents where you need to exit quickly, let's think through what can cause that urgency?
Water submersion - shouldn't be issue unless you drive into the Daytona infield lake!
Life threatening injuries - this is one where you likely can't extricate yourself, and need to rely on the safety crews to do so for you. And the likelihood that they would try to pull you through the window with your helmet on is extremely small (unless there is a fire, which I cover below). They'd cut the roof first, or pry the door open. So our small window opening probably not a big deal in this case? Maybe makes it more difficult for reach-through CPR? Maybe?
Fire or even threat of fire (i.e. the car is on it's roof and you smell fuel). This is the big one, the main threat that I can see where not being able to exit quickly could really hurt and has hurt/killed many in the past. Break this one down into two further scenarios: you can move freely in the car or for some reason you can't.
If you can move freely, get that helmet off and get through any opening you can find. Can we all do this in less than 20-30 seconds?? I know that I have never 'drilled' on this. I think we need to train ourselves to quickly make sure door is unlocked and try and open it. If not, immediately go for the helmet next.
If you can't move freely...you are in trouble. This means you are relying on the safety crews and corner workers to get that fire out or pull you out before you are burned. And at HDPE events, you are looking at volunteers that hold your life in their hands. They are usually well-trained and certainly well-intentioned...but maybe understaffed?
I think I may have just talked myself into putting a fire extinguisher within easy reach into my car.
Are there other scenarios we are missing here?
Mike