Getting trapped in an elevator can be a terrifying experience. While many elevators are equipped with emergency contact phones, you may be able to open a stuck elevator door from the inside even if you don't have any tools. Your success on opening the elevator doors will depend largely on the age and model of the elevator. No matter what type of elevator you are in, it is important to stay calm when attempting to open the doors to ensure no one is injured.
Step 1
Push the "Open" button to ensure it is not working. If there is a phone or emergency button, use it before attempting to open the doors. For emergency buttons, wait at least fifteen seconds before trying to contact someone again. If you have a cell phone, contact the building manager or the police to let them know people are trapped in the elevator.
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Step 2
Pull out the "Stop" button. If you do succeed in opening the doors and the elevator suddenly begins moving again, you may be seriously injured.
Step 3
Look for a push bar on either side of the elevator and push it. Everyone in the elevator should stand back at this point, as the elevator may be in between floors.
Step 4
Stick your fingers into the crack of the doors down by the floor and attempt to pry them apart. This may work with elevators in older buildings, but if the elevator is more modern and the building is experiencing a power outage, this attempt may be unsuccessful.
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