Breaking Truck Windows: When and How to Do it Safely

“Better safe than sorry” – a wise saying, especially if you own a truck, the bread and butter of your family. Have you ever wondered what to do in an emergency, such as your truck sinking in water or an electrical short preventing the doors from opening? In such situations, breaking a truck window might be the only way to save yourself and others.

When to Break a Truck Window

Breaking a truck window is a serious action and should only be taken in life-threatening emergencies, such as:

• Truck Submerged in Water: When water floods the cabin, opening the doors becomes incredibly difficult due to water pressure. Breaking a window is the fastest way to escape.
• Truck Fire: In case of a fire, rapidly spreading flames and toxic smoke can render you unconscious. Breaking a window creates a safe escape route.
• Truck Trapped in an Accident: If the doors are jammed shut due to an accident, breaking a window allows you to escape or be rescued.

Steps to Safely Break a Truck Window

Prepare the Tool

Keep a window breaker tool in your truck. These tools are usually compact, easy to use, and designed to shatter tempered glass. You can find them at auto parts stores or truck dealerships.

Identify the Target Window

Aim for the corner of a window or a side window, as windshields are often reinforced and more difficult to break.

Car window breaker tool

Break the Window

• Strike the corner of the window firmly with the window breaker tool, avoiding the center of the pane.
• After the glass breaks, clear away the shards with your hand.
• Quickly exit the vehicle or help others escape.

Important Considerations When Breaking a Truck Window

• Remain calm and assess the situation before acting.
• Prioritize children, the elderly, and women when escaping.
• After escaping, move to a safe distance from the truck and call for help.