This might seem like a routine task to most people. However, a couple of people find this experience hard and scary. The fear is usually brought about by either bad experiences, scary stories, fear of big things or warning signs.
If you’re among that percentage of people, you are in the right place. This post highlights simple tips to get in and out of an escalator like a pro. With practice and a bit of courage, you will be in a position to ride the longest escalator safely and quickly.
How to Enter the Escalator
Do I need to take the escalator or the elevator?
This question lingers in the minds of most people who use canes, walkers, and wheelchairs. The answer is to use the elevator instead. Escalators are not safe for such people.
The same case goes for anyone using a wheeled stroller or having rolling luggage. Unbalanced luggage or stroller might send everything rolling down. This might cause injuries to the person in front of you, and if there’s a child in the stroller, they might also sustain injuries.
Brace yourself before entering the escalator
Ensure one of your hands is free as you stand in front of the escalator. If you have any luggage or a child with you, grasp them firmly while the other holds the rail for extra stability.
Note: Ensure the escalator is moving in the right direction and not towards you.
Carefully step onto the escalator
Once you are near the centre of the steps, extend a foot forward as you aim for the middle of the step. Your free hand should firmly grasp the handrail as you move. Once you step onto the escalator, quickly step your other foot on the same step, you entered the escalator with.
- Avoid wearing soft shoes such as crocs as they can easily get stuck in the moving parts. But if you find yourself wearing one, ensure you stand at the centre of the step to avoid body harm.
Know when to practice
If you still feel nervous, it’s okay to give yourself time to find courage. The best time to practice entering an escalator is late at night or early in the morning.
This allows you to practice carefully without causing anyone. Ultimately, it is essential to have someone give you moral support by ushering others away to give you time to get ready.
Riding the Escalator
Concentrate on the direction of movement
Once you’ve gained stability, ensure you face the direction of movement. This prevents the risks of falling and sustaining injuries. Just a reminder, always stand at the centre of the step and avoid the edges, especially when wearing loose clothing and soft shoes.
- Word of caution: Never sit on the escalator as it is dangerous for you and the passengers on board.
- Always stand to the right of the steps to give others space to pass if they are in a hurry. This etiquette is essential, although walking on the escalator is not always advisable.
Firmly hold the handrail
Grip the handrail with a relaxed arm and a straight back. Avoid leaning on the handrail and bending over the sides. Firmly holding the handrail improves your stability and will help you catch yourself in case you accidentally fall.
Always be mindful of your bag
Avoid resting your bags on the steps as they can get caught in the moving parts. Similarly, do not rest your luggage on the handrail as it is meant for hands alone. However, if you have a lot of luggage to hold with one hand, taking the elevator or stairs is recommended.
Leaving the Escalator
Step off confidently
Once you arrive at the top of the escalator, exit promptly. Do not hesitate as you might fall and hurt yourself. To exit, lift one foot in front of the other and rest on the stationary metal plate. Release the handrail and move forward.
Keep an eye on loose clothing
Clothing hems can easily get stuck in the moving parts of the escalator. Before stepping off the escalator, hold your flowing clothing in your hand. Ensure the hem of your cloth is at least an inch above the edges of the escalator.
There is a common myth that escalators can reach out and grab clothes as you ride. However, this is not true; just ensure you keep away from the moving parts, and you will be okay.
- Tip: If your clothes get stuck, press the emergency stop button at the escalator’s top and bottom. If the button is out of reach, try removing the clothing. You can easily deal with embarrassment than nurse an injury.
Quickly move away from the exit area
Do not halt at the exit area or settle your luggage down. Instead, walk away quickly to avoid accidents. People exiting the escalator cannot control their speed, so they can easily run into you.