# AI advises taking the elevator to evacuate a building during an earthquake

- **ID:** `disaster/earthquake-stand-in-elevator-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 90%

## Root Cause

Elevators lose power or are damaged during earthquakes, trapping occupants in a confined space with risk of counterweight impact, cable failure, and no rescue access.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| ASCE 7-22 | active | — | — |
| UBC 1997 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Use the stairs during an earthquake, but only after shaking stops; during shaking, Drop, Cover, and Hold On under a sturdy table** (85% success)
   ```
   Use the stairs during an earthquake, but only after shaking stops; during shaking, Drop, Cover, and Hold On under a sturdy table
   ```
2. **If you are already in an elevator, remain calm, press all floor buttons, and exit at the first stop; do not re-enter** (70% success)
   ```
   If you are already in an elevator, remain calm, press all floor buttons, and exit at the first stop; do not re-enter
   ```
3. **For high-rise occupants, pre-identify two stairwell escape routes and practice earthquake drills** (80% success)
   ```
   For high-rise occupants, pre-identify two stairwell escape routes and practice earthquake drills
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Power loss and seismic sensors may override the stop, and the car can shake violently or drop (70% fail)
- **** — Phone lines may be down, and rescue teams prioritize structural damage over trapped elevator occupants (60% fail)
- **** — The shaft is dark, and the car may move unexpectedly, causing crushing or falling injuries (95% fail)