How to Survive a Hot Air Balloon Crash?
Hot air balloons are fun! But you should also remember that they can be dangerous if not used properly.
So, what do you do if your hot air balloon is about to crash?
Let's find out!
How Do You Survive a Hot Air Balloon Crash?
Hot air balloons don't crash frequently, but it's good to know what to do you ever find yourself in one.
Here are seven tips that might help you survive:
1. Try to Stay Calm and Don't Panic:
If you're calm, you'll be able to think more clearly and make better decisions.
2. Look for a Safe Landing Spot:
If you see that the balloon will crash, try to look for a safe landing spot. Look for an open field or body of water. Avoid power lines, trees, and buildings.
3. Curl into a Fetal Position:
Tuck your chin down toward your chest, and put your hands over your head and neck when you're falling. This will help to protect your head and neck from injuries.
4. Landing in Water:
If you're landing in water, it's important to deploy the life preserver and inflate it before hitting it. This will help to keep you afloat and make it easier for rescuers to spot you.
Once you're in the water, signal for help.
5. Landing in A Remote Area:
If you're landing in a remote area, it's important to try to find a trail or road and follow it until you find help. Drink plenty of water and rest when you can.
If you have a cellphone, try to call for help.
6. Take the Reins:
Taking control of the balloon may seem like a daunting task, but it's actually quite simple. All you need to do is grab hold of the ropes attached to the basket or gondola and start pulling. This will cause the balloon to start ascending again.
However, it's important to note that you'll only have a limited amount of time to take control of the balloon before it crashes. So you'll need to act quickly and decisively. Once you've taken control of the balloon, try to find a safe landing spot and descend slowly.
7. Be Prepared:
The best way to survive a hot air balloon crash is to be prepared. That means knowing what to do before the crash even happens.
And remember, if you ever find yourself in a hot air balloon that's about to crash, try to stay calm and use your head. Use these tips to help you survive the crash and return to safety.
Can A Hot Air Balloon Pop?
While hot air balloons are filled with highly flammable gas, they're very resistant to popping. The secret lies in the way that the gas is contained. Hot air balloons have an envelope, or large bag, made of tough fabric. This envelope is designed to stretch and expand as the balloon rises into the air.
The envelope is also equipped with a valve that you can open to release gas and lower the balloon. So, while a hot air balloon can catch fire and burst into flames, it's very unlikely for the balloon to simply pop. Here are a few reasons why a hot air balloon pops:
If The Balloon Is Overinflated:
If the balloon is overinflated, the envelope will be stressed. This can cause the fabric to tear or rupture, resulting in a sudden release of gas and a rapid descent. For example, if a strong gust of wind fills the balloon with too much gas, the envelope could rupture.
If you're ever in a hot air balloon rising too quickly, open the valve to release some gas and prevent the balloon from popping.
If The Balloon Is Damaged:
If the balloon is damaged by fire or a sharp object, the envelope can be punctured, which will cause a sudden release of gas and a rapid descent. This can be a particularly dangerous situation if the balloon is overinflated. For example, if the balloon hits a tree branch, the branch could puncture the envelope and cause the balloon to crash.
If The Balloon Is Put Under Too Much Stress:
The envelope can rupture if the balloon is put under too much stress, either by wind or by being tugged on too hard. This will cause a sudden release of gas and a rapid descent. So, it's important to be careful when handling a hot air balloon.
If The Balloon Catches Fire:
If the balloon catches fire, the heat will cause the envelope to expand rapidly. This can cause the fabric to tear or rupture, resulting in a sudden, rapid descent. Sometimes, the fire will cause the balloon to explode, which can be incredibly dangerous. For example, the tank could explode if the fire burns through the envelope and reaches the gas tank.
If The Balloon Collides with Something:
If the balloon collides with a tree, power line, or another object, the impact can cause the envelope to tear or rupture. This can lead to a crash. In some cases, the collision will cause the balloon to explode, which can be incredibly dangerous.
So, while a hot air balloon can pop, it's rare. However, the fabric is also very strong and can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.
