How to Survive a Plane Crash: What to Do Before, During, and After

Have a plan

This is the key. Time and again, having a notion of what you are going to do in the event of a crash or forced landing has been found to be fundamental to survival. First, really do listen to the safety announcement and read the safety card, and if you don't, then at the very least know exactly where to find the nearest exits. Actually count the number of rows from your seat to exits in front and behind you – the chances are you might be trying to find your way to an exit in pitch dark and/or thick smoke. Bear in mind that – unfortunately – you may have several minutes' warning before impact, so use the time to go through any plan again.