You’re behind the wheel, and somehow your car ends up in water. What’s your next move? This isn’t just a hypothetical question, given the recent incident in Baltimore, where a cargo ship lost control and crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing vehicles to plunge into the frigid waters below. Although such accidents are uncommon, being prepared is always wise. Investing in an inexpensive gadget like the best car escape tools on our list below can make all the difference in these critical moments.
Safety experts say it is virtually impossible to open the door of a sinking car due to the water pressure outside the vehicle. These vehicle escape tools are designed to cut seatbelts and smash out windows so you can escape quickly from your car without opening the door. If you travel over water regularly, keeping one of these tools close at hand could save your life. It’s crucial to store your escape tool in a spot that’s accessible during an emergency, not tucked away in a glove compartment where it’s unreachable if your seatbelt jams. Ideally, you should attach it to your keychain, secure it under the driver’s seat, or fasten it to the center console, ensuring it’s ready to go! Our focus is on identifying the premier combo tools that provide a seamless escape from your vehicle under any circumstances. Let’s explore the best car escape tools according to safety experts across nine websites. Did we miss one that you swear by? Tell your story below!
The List: Best Car Escape Tools, According To Experts
1. Resqme 2-in-1 Keychain
This tops our list because it is the top recommended combo tool. It is an affordable option and attaches to your keychain, so you can access it easily in an emergency. According to The Drive, the spring-loaded device has a stainless-steel tip that “reliably breaks glass.” It has a strong blade that can slice a seatbelt in seconds, without slicing the driver.
This is the most popular escape tool on Amazon. It comes in various bright colors and it’s available in single, two, or three packs. Autoguide says it was originally designed for first responders but is now available for anyone to purchase. It’s reusable, but hopefully, you’ll never have to use it at all.
The Resqme tool is small and portable. As a result, The Bug Out Bag Guide points out you can carry it with you at all times. This is useful if you’re in an Uber or taking public transportation.
A note of caution: since many cars have auto push start buttons, you may want to hang and attach this device elsewhere if your keys are buried in your purse or pant pocket.
2. LifeHammer Evolution
Another affordable multi-use tool, the Lifehammer Evolution is not only a window breaker, but also a seatbelt cutter. The Truth About Cars says it comes in a “myriad of brightly and easy-to-see-in-a-panic colors.” Remember, these devices will only break tempered glass and not windshields.
The Bug Out Bag Guide also loves The LifeHammer Evolution because you can mount it on your dashboard or the interior of your car, so it’s ready at all times. It’s made of quality materials and easy for anyone to use, even older kids and the elderly.
Two models of this German-manufactured escape tool even glow in the dark, so you can find the device at night. They are the neon yellow or the bright orange. According to Seasons, the company has manufactured the tool since 1982, making it a top pick in the industry.
3. Ztylus Special Design Stinger USB Emergency Escape Tool
This escape tool is a bit unique because it plugs into the USB port of your car and doubles as a phone charger. Not only will it help break a window or cut a seatbelt, but Autoweek says it will be easy to find in case of an emergency and won’t go flying around your vehicle.
This is the Editor’s pick at Autoguide because “the spring-loaded punch works quickly and easily.” But, it will only break tempered glass. According to the Ztylus website, the seat belt cutter even cuts a 5000-pound towing strap, so it will work well on any seatbelt.
University Mitsubishi also gives this escape tool high marks because of its versatility. Not only will it help you escape a water emergency, it will save you from a low phone battery emergency as well.
4. LUXON Emergency Tool 7-in-1 Car Safety Tool
Luxon’s version of a car safety tool is packed with features, including a USB port that can also be charged using a hand crank. The Truth About Cars points out it’s not only a glass breaker and a seat belt cutter, but also a flashlight so you can see in the dark. You can also activate an SOS red light in a Morse code pattern.
This device may even come in handy in non-emergency situations thanks to its magnet and LED flashlight. Autoguide says the strobe light option is a useful warning light to use if you are on the side of the road. The tool comes with a one-year warranty.
No survivalist training is needed for this 7-in-1 safety tool. Seasons says it has a hammer and seat belt cutter, as well as five other safety features to help you in an emergency. It’s also easy to attach to the body of the vehicle thanks to a strong magnet.
Sources:
- The Drive
- The Truth About Cars
- Autoweek
- Autoguide
- Older Cars Weekly
- University Mitsubishi
- The Bug Out Bag Guide
- Seasons
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.