How to Stop an Elevator if It Gets Stuck and What to Do

If an elevator stops unexpectedly, the most important thing is to remain calm. Modern safety systems are designed to protect you at all times. With just a few simple actions, you can alert the maintenance technicians and wait calmly until the cabin is safely restored.

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What to Do if an Elevator Stops

Although being trapped in an elevator can feel unsettling, it’s essential to remember that modern elevators are designed to stop in a controlled way. Here are the steps you should follow:

Stay calm. The cabin will not fall or put your safety at risk. Automatic brakes and the speed governor activate immediately in case of failure.
Press the alarm or emergency button. Hold it down for a few seconds. This button connects you directly to the elevator maintenance company, which will answer your call and send a qualified technician.
Follow the technician’s instructions. While help is on the way, you’ll receive guidance to help you feel safe and reassured.
Remain inside the cabin. Do not try to force the doors or exit on your own. Handling the elevator without technical knowledge can be dangerous.
Wait for professional assistance. Only trained maintenance technicians are qualified to perform a safe rescue and restore the system.

In summary, if your elevator comes to a stop, the right thing to do is to trust the safety systems and the response of the service team. At Elevadores Vilber, we work every day to ensure that even in an unexpected situation, you can feel confident that your safety is guaranteed. Our commitment to accessibility and safety is reflected in all our elevation solutions, designed to suit homes, communities, and businesses.

Safety Systems That Automatically Stop an Elevator

Modern elevators include several safety systems designed to act immediately if an incident occurs. Thanks to these systems, an elevator can stop without the passenger needing to take action.

Speed governor: activates if the cabin exceeds the set speed, triggering the brakes to stop movement safely.
Automatic brakes: located in the elevator’s mechanical system, they engage in case of a fault and ensure the cabin stays securely in place.
Alarm or emergency button: present in all cabins, it connects directly with the elevator maintenance company for immediate assistance.
Emergency key: may only be used by authorized technicians for rescues or maintenance, never by passengers.

Safety System Comparison Table

System	Who Activates It	Main Function
Speed governor	Automatic	Detect excess speed and stop the cabin
Automatic brakes	Automatic	Lock the cabin in case of failure
Alarm button	Passenger	Connect with service technicians
Emergency key	Authorized technician	Carry out rescues or maintenance

At Elevadores Vilber, we install and maintain elevators and lifts equipped with the latest-generation systems, because safety always comes first.

Common Mistakes You Should Never Make in a Stopped Elevator

When an elevator stops, your instinctive reaction may lead to dangerous mistakes. Always avoid these:

Forcing the doors: pushing them can damage the system and cause an accident.
Using the emergency key without being a technician: not only is it illegal, it’s extremely dangerous.
Trying to exit on your own: jumping or climbing out of the cabin is one of the leading causes of serious accidents.
Turning off the elevator from the electrical panel: tampering with the installation without technical knowledge can complicate the rescue.

Remember: the cabin is designed to be the safest place until the service technicians arrive.

Real Case: How a Passenger Acted When Trapped in an Elevator

A few months ago, a resident of a community in Madrid was trapped when his elevator stopped suddenly between two floors. Following basic recommendations, he stayed calm, pressed the emergency button, and contacted our service team directly. In less than 20 minutes, an Elevadores Vilber crew arrived and carried out the rescue safely. Thanks to the automatic brake systems and professional assistance, the passenger was never at risk. This case proves that relying on technology and specialized maintenance service is the best guarantee of safety.

Tips to Prevent Stops and Improve Safety

Even though modern elevators are highly reliable, the best way to avoid incidents is through preventive and regular maintenance. Here are some key recommendations:

Regular inspections: ensure that all mechanical and electrical components are working properly.
Regulatory compliance: current legislation requires elevators to be kept in optimal condition to protect passengers.
Hire a specialized service: only qualified technicians can make adjustments and repairs with full guarantees.
Pay attention to warning signs: unusual noises, jerky movements, or abnormal waiting times should be checked immediately.

At Elevadores Vilber, we work with customized elevator maintenance protocols that minimize the chances of unexpected stops and extend the lifespan of your elevator. Prevention is the best investment in safety and peace of mind.

Conclusion: Your Safety Is Guaranteed in a Modern Elevator

Getting stuck in an elevator may be uncomfortable, but it should never be alarming. Current safety systems and the intervention of specialized technicians guarantee your protection at all times. At Elevadores Vilber, we make sure every ride is safe and accessible. If you want to reinforce your building’s safety or rely on trustworthy maintenance, contact us—we’ll be happy to help.