Put your best foot forward: Stay safe on elevators and escalators this holiday season

NEW WESTMINSTER, BC, Dec. 7, 2016 /CNW/ - Holiday shopping is well underway and at this busy time of year, BC Safety Authority (BCSA) reminds British Columbians to use precautions and common sense to stay safe on elevators and escalators.

Most incidents on elevators and escalators that are reported to BCSA are preventable and can be attributed to user behavior. Some of the most common issues are falls caused by inattention or loss of balance; or injuries caused by clothing, footwear or shopping bags getting caught. Improper use of mobility devices or strollers on these devices also poses a risk of injury.

Elevator Safety Tips

• Elevator floors are not always level. Pay attention and watch your step as you get on or off. Trips are common and preventable.
• If doors are closing, never try to use a body part to keep them open longer.
• If the doors don't open, ring the alarm button and wait for help.
• Pay attention to the maximum number of passengers and weight restrictions posted in the elevator car.
• In the event of a fire, never use an elevator – take the stairs.

Escalator / Moving Walk Safety Tips

• Never allow children to play on or around an escalator or moving walk.
• Teach youngsters that elevators are not toys and how to use them safely.
• Some types of shoes can get caught in escalator stairs. When you get to the end, quickly step onto the platform.
• Hold children or small packages firmly with one hand and hold the railing with the other hand.
• Step on and off carefully, keeping your eyes forward and using the hand rails if you feel unsteady.
• Never transport walkers, wheeled vehicles or strollers; take an elevator instead.
• Be careful when carrying packages and keep them well away from the rails.
• Do not touch the sides below the handrail.
• Keep loose clothing like long dresses, coats, scarves, etc. well away of the stairs and sides.
• Stand facing forward.

If you spot an unsafe condition on an elevating device, you can confidentially report it to BCSA through the Report a Safety Risk system.

About BC Safety Authority

BC Safety Authority is an independent, self-funded organization mandated to oversee the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment. In addition to issuing permits, licences and certificates, it works with industry to reduce safety risks through assessment, education and outreach, enforcement, and research.

SOURCE British Columbia Safety Authority

Image with caption: "Soft shoes can get caught in escalator stairs - be careful! (CNW Group/British Columbia Safety Authority)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20161207_C3554_PHOTO_EN_834308.jpg

Media Relations, BC Safety Authority, 778-396-2164, [email protected]