The Ultimate Guide to Escape Room Safety: Risks and Precautions

Buckle up, dear reader, because we’re diving headfirst into the immersive world of escape rooms – a place where your wits are your weapons and time is your greatest enemy.

Welcome to Entermission’s Ultimate Guide to Escape Room Safety! We are excited to dive deep into the world of escape rooms and explore the many layers of safety that come with this thrilling adventure.

At Entermission, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, immersive escape room experiences that prioritise participant safety. Our goal with this guide is to educate players on the many risks and precautions involved and ensure everyone has a safe, collaborative, and enjoyable experience.

Here’s the kicker: escape rooms are real-life adventure games where participants are locked in a themed room and must solve puzzles, crack codes, and unravel mysteries to make their way out before time runs out. Easy peasy, right? Not so fast! The adventure is thrilling, no doubt, but what about safety?

Importance of Escape Room Safety

Remember what your parents used to say? “Safety first!” This golden rule applies to escape rooms too. No one wants their Indiana Jones adventure to turn into a real-life thriller with a trip to the emergency room. So, as we explore this thrilling universe, we’ll also unravel the many layers of escape room safety. Buckle up!

In this blog, we’re going to answer some of those burning questions you’ve been dying to ask. So, let’s get started.

Can You Get Hurt in Escape Rooms?

Well, we aren’t playing Twister on a bed of nails, but yes, there are some minor risks involved, more about which in two minutes!

Do Escape Rooms Actually, Lock the Door?

Good news, my claustrophobic friends! By law, escape rooms cannot physically lock you in. There’s always a safe and accessible exit available. So, breathe easy, and let’s carry on.

Are Escape Rooms Video Recorded?

Yes! But not for some weird Big Brother stuff. Video recordings are generally for safety and game moderation purposes. So no, they won’t catch you doing the Macarena in the Medieval torture chamber room. Well, they might, but they’re not supposed to laugh.

Can They Hear You in an Escape Room?

Generally, yes. Game masters often listen in to offer hints or ensure safety. But don’t worry, they’re professionals, not eavesdroppers. They’re there to help, not to gossip about your secret fear of rubber ducks.

What if You Fail an Escape Room?

Well, failing isn’t really failing in an escape room. It’s all part of the fun! So, you didn’t escape this time? Who cares? There’s always next time. Besides, those rooms are tricky. It’s not like you were trying to find your car keys.

Understanding Escape Room Risks

All right, so we’ve established that escape rooms are exciting and, yes, relatively safe. But that doesn’t mean they’re risk-free. It’s essential to understand potential hazards, both physical and psychological.

Physical Hazards

• Tripping and Falling – Watch your step! The floor isn’t lava, but escape rooms can be filled with tricky terrain and mysterious objects.
• Sharp Objects and Protrusions – Just because it’s a pirate-themed room doesn’t mean you need to get a peg leg to match. Be careful when handling props!
• Electrical Hazards – Turning the big red dial or flicking the mysterious switch can be exciting, but it’s important to ensure safety around electrical props.

Psychological Risks

• Anxiety and Stress – Sure, it’s exhilarating to solve clues under pressure, but it can also be a bit stressful. Remember, it’s just a game!
• Claustrophobia – Escape rooms are, by design, enclosed spaces. But don’t worry, the exit is never truly locked. If the thought of confined spaces makes you sweat, inform the game master in advance – they’ll be more than happy to accommodate your needs.
• Panic Attacks – It’s thrilling, it’s adrenaline-pumping, but for some, the intensity can trigger panic attacks. Fear not! Understanding your emotional limits and preparing accordingly can help mitigate these risks. It’s a game, after all, and games are meant to be enjoyed!

Preparing for Safe Escape Room Experiences

Safety in escape rooms isn’t just about managing risks during the game. It starts way before you set foot in the room.

Researching Reputable Escape Room Venues

• Reading Reviews and Testimonials – You wouldn’t eat at a restaurant without checking the reviews first, right? The same applies to escape rooms. Websites like TripAdvisor or Yelp can offer great insights into previous participants’ experiences.
• Checking Safety Certifications – A reputable escape room will proudly flaunt its safety credentials. Check their website or ask them directly. If they don’t have any, it’s a red flag!

Evaluating Escape Room Difficulty Levels

• Starting with Beginner-Friendly Rooms – Not all escape rooms are created equal. If you’re a newbie, start with beginner-friendly rooms. There’s no shame in it. Remember, even Batman started with baby steps!
• Gradually Increasing Challenge Levels – As you gain confidence and experience, feel free to venture into more challenging rooms. But remember, it’s all about having fun, not impressing the Game Master with your genius-level IQ!

Checking Safety Policies and Procedures

• Staff Training and Emergency Protocols – Ensure the venue staff are trained in emergency protocols. Ask them about their training. It’s your right as a player!
• Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans – Find out about the venue’s fire safety measures and evacuation plans. In the unlikely event of an emergency, you’ll be glad you did.

Communicating Any Health Concerns or Limitations

• Informing Staff About Medical Conditions – Are you Asthmatic? Claustrophobic? Pregnant? Let the staff know. They’ll make the necessary arrangements to ensure your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
• Requesting Accommodations If Needed – Need a chair? Or maybe a break halfway through the game? Don’t hesitate to ask. Escape rooms aim to entertain, not torture!

Safety Measures During Escape Room Activities

Now that we’ve prepared ourselves let’s get to the main event!

Dressing Appropriately for the Experience

• Wearing Comfortable Clothing and Footwear – Dress for success, they say. In escape rooms, success means comfort. Ditch the high heels and opt for comfy sneakers. You might thank me later.
• Avoiding Loose Accessories or Jewellery – Leave the bling at home. You wouldn’t want to lose your grandmother’s heirloom ring in the Pharaoh’s tomb, would you?

Following the Instructions and Guidelines

• Listening to the Briefing Session – The briefing isn’t just an opportunity to make jokes about the Game Master’s weird hat. It’s important information. Listen carefully!
• Asking Questions When in Doubt – Unclear about something? Ask away! Better to clarify now than be left wondering when the clock is ticking.

Avoiding Reckless Behaviour

• Not Running or Jumping Inside the Room – Remember, this isn’t a school playground or a gym. It’s all fun and games until someone takes a tumble. Keep those sneakers on the ground!
• Handling Props and Equipment with Care – Those artifacts in the room may look like ancient relics, but they’re not. Treat them with respect, and they’ll be less likely to rebel (read: break) on you.

Staying Calm and Composed

• Managing Anxiety and Stress Levels – Feeling the adrenaline surge? That’s great! But remember to keep your cool. Your team’s success (and safety) depends on it.
• Using Relaxation Techniques If Needed – Feel like you’re spiralling? Take a moment. Breathe. If you’ve done yoga before, now might be a good time to remember those breathing techniques.

Teamwork and Communication for Safety

A successful escape isn’t just about solving puzzles—it’s about working together. Here are our top tips for maintaining steady channels of communication with your teammates.

Establishing Effective Communication Within the Team

• Assigning Roles and Responsibilities – It’s a team game, folks! Spread out tasks according to each player’s strengths. Is someone good with numbers? Let them tackle the number puzzles.
• Sharing Important Information – Found a clue? Don’t keep it to yourself. Remember, communication is key, just like in every boy band ever.

Using Clear and Concise Communication During the Game

• Avoiding Excessive Shouting or Screaming – Unless you’re auditioning for a horror movie, keep the volume down. Too much noise can confuse your teammates and dilute vital information.
• Using Gestures and Signals Effectively – When words fail, let your hands do the talking. Agree on some basic gestures beforehand to avoid turning the game into a chaotic game of charades.

Respecting Teammates’ Boundaries and Limitations

• Not Pushing Others Beyond Their Comfort Zones – Remember, everyone has different limits. Respect your teammates’ boundaries. They’re your comrades, not your competitors.
• Offering Support and Encouragement – A little encouragement goes a long way! Be the cheerleader your team didn’t know they needed.

Dealing with Emergencies in Escape Rooms

We hope it never comes to this, but if it does, here’s what to do:

Recognising Common Emergency Situations

• Fire or Smoke – Smelling something smoky that’s not part of the game? Alert your team and the game master immediately.
• Power Outage – The lights went out, and it’s not part of the game? Stay calm, don’t move, and wait for instructions.
• Medical Emergencies – Is someone in your team feeling unwell? Notify the staff immediately. The game can wait. Health comes first!

Understanding Escape Room Emergency Protocols

• Identifying Emergency Exits and Alarms – Before the game starts, be sure to note the locations of emergency exits and alarms.
• Knowing How to Communicate with Staff – There should always be a way to communicate with the game master or staff. Make sure you’re aware of how to do so.

Taking Immediate Actions During Emergencies

• Staying Calm and Guiding the Team – If something goes wrong, keep your head. Stay calm, coordinate your team, and follow the established protocols.
• Evacuating the Room Safely – In an emergency, remember the golden rule – don’t panic! Take your time, gather your wits, and guide your team out like a graceful swan. No running, no pushing, and no leaving anyone behind.
• Reporting any Safety Concerns to the Venue Management – Found a loose tile, a snagging carpet, or a suspiciously flickering light? Make sure to report it to the management – not just for your own sake, but for future players too. Be a hero in reality, not just in the game!

Post-Game Safety Considerations

Phew! You’ve escaped (or maybe not). But there are a few things to consider once the game is over. Let’s take a look!

Reflecting on the Experience and Lessons Learned

Was it challenging? Did you feel like Sherlock Holmes? Reflect on the experience and see what you’ve learned. You might just find that you’ve grown as a person (and a player).

Checking for any Injuries or Discomfort

Check your team for any injuries or discomfort. If you didn’t escape unscathed (literally), make sure you get the necessary medical attention. Don’t walk off a twisted ankle!

Providing Feedback to the Escape Room Venue

Whether you had a thrilling experience or spotted a safety concern, provide feedback to the venue. It helps them improve and keeps future players safe.

Sharing Safety Tips with Others

Escape room safety doesn’t stop at the venue. Share your wisdom with others, and let’s create a safe and enjoyable escape room culture together!

Are You Ready for The Ultimate Escape Room Experience? 

We’ve covered a lot of ground today, so let’s bring it all together.

Escape rooms are a boatload of fun, but safety is paramount. As much as we love a heroic rescue story, we’d rather not have one in our escape rooms. Thank you very much!

Remember, the goal of an escape room is not just to escape but to have an exciting, memorable, and safe adventure. If you take nothing else from this article, remember this: Be safe, be smart, and have fun!

Looking for the best escape room experience near you? Look no further than Entermission Melbourne! Our state-of-the-art escape rooms are designed with your safety and enjoyment in mind. With a variety of themes, difficulty levels, and challenges, there’s something for everyone.

But don’t just take our word for it. Entermission has a proven track record of safety and excellence, with certifications and glowing reviews from satisfied customers. Our staff is extensively trained in emergency protocols, and all of our rooms undergo regular safety checks.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your escape room adventure at Entermission now and experience the thrill of the game like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned escapee or a first-timer, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out on the fun – book now!

FAQ

What Are the Potential Risks in An Escape Room?

While escape rooms are usually designed with safety in mind, like any physical activity, there are potential risks. These can range from physical hazards like tripping and bumping into objects to psychological ones such as claustrophobia or panic attacks. And hey, let’s not forget the risk of a bruised ego if you can’t crack the code in time!

Are Escape Rooms Safe, And Can You Get Hurt or Injured in Them?

Yes, escape rooms are generally safe, but as the saying goes, “It’s all fun and games until someone trips over a prop.” It’s important to follow the rules, respect the environment, and communicate with your team to avoid injuries. And remember, the only thing that should be hurt in an escape room is the villain’s plan!

Are Escape Rooms Monitored and Video Recorded?

Escape rooms often feel like you’re in your own little world, but rest assured, Big Brother is watching – for your safety, of course! Most escape rooms have monitoring systems and video recordings to ensure the safety of players. Just remember, it’s not Hollywood, so don’t expect a call from a talent scout!

Can They Hear You in An Escape Room?

Can they ever! The staff often has audio monitoring to listen for any issues or to provide hints if your team is stuck. So, if you’ve got secret plans for world domination, maybe save that conversation for later, huh?

Do Escape Rooms Actually, Lock the Door?

Escape rooms are thrilling, not terrifying. While the concept revolves around ‘escaping,’ in reality, safety regulations usually require doors to remain unlocked or have an easy-to-use exit mechanism. So, even though you might feel like Houdini, there’s no need for a dramatic escape act.

Do Escape Rooms Have Jump Scares?

Escape rooms are more about puzzling conundrums than horror movie tactics. However, some rooms, especially those with a horror theme, might include a jump scare or two. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun – just don’t drop your clues in fright!

What Actually Happens in An Escape Room?

Imagine you’re in a detective novel. You’re presented with a scenario, usually a mystery or challenge, and must work together with your team to find clues, solve puzzles, and “escape” within a set time. It’s like a rollercoaster for your brain – exhilarating, fast-paced, and oh-so-rewarding when you solve that final puzzle.

What If You Fail an Escape Room?

So, you didn’t escape in time? No need to wallow in despair! The aim of escape rooms is to have fun, challenge yourself, and enjoy teamwork. So, you didn’t beat the clock, big deal! You’ll walk away with a great story, some lessons learned, and an excuse to try again. As they say, what doesn’t escape you, makes you smarter!