Purpose Vehicle submersion has one of the highest fatality rates for any type of single-vehicle incidents, accounting for up to 10% of drownings in industrialized nations. A survey was conducted to determine current public Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice regarding vehicle submersion accidents, escape strategies and protocols.

Method Eighty-two respondents were surveyed at a public event in Winnipeg, Canada.

Results Although most respondents (87%) had knowledge of vehicle submersion events, most (86.6%) felt there was minimal risk of being involved in a vehicle submersion personally, and most (82%) thought that they would likely survive such an event. Most respondents (90%) selected a ‘successful’ initial action (e.g., SEATBELTS off, or WINDOWS open) that could lead to escape and survival during vehicle submersion. However, other responses indicated the chances of completing an entire self-rescue sequence (SEATBELTS off, WINDOWS open, OUT, CHILDREN first; SWOC) is less likely. In the event that a window needs to be broken, the chances of success decrease. Only 70% of respondents appropriately chose a side window to break if necessary (front and rear windshields are laminated and cannot be broken). Even less (57%) identified objects to use, that could likely break a side window. Only 13 (16%) respondents had a proper window breaking tool in their vehicle, and none had their tool installed in the best location that is visible and reachable (hanging from the rearview mirror).

Conclusions Most people were aware of vehicle submersions. Few respondents felt this scenario posed a significant risk to themselves, and there was limited knowledge related to vehicle sinking characteristics and the SWOC escape strategy. Thus, more work is required for further research and public education initiatives to prevent vehicle submersion incidents, and to teach the ‘SEATBELTS off, WINDOWS open, OUT, CHILDREN first’ protocol, to prevent vehicle submersion deaths.

Funding NSERC, Canada.