Wheelchair User Pressed Emergency Button After Elevator Stalls, Not Expecting What Firefighters Would Do When They Showed Up (Exclusive)

**Clemson University Student Rescued from Elevator Shares Insight on Emergency Preparedness**

In a recent incident at Clemson University, student Liv Benedetto found herself in a precarious situation after becoming trapped in an elevator between floors. The experience, lasting approximately 45 minutes, prompted reflections on emergency planning, especially for individuals with disabilities.

Benedetto was en route to her third-floor dormitory after attending classes when the elevator abruptly halted just before reaching the second floor. She recounted her surprise, stating, “I was on my way back to my room from class. It stopped and shut down just before it hit the second floor.” Alongside two unfamiliar peers, she quickly pressed the emergency button and settled in for what initially seemed like a brief wait.

As time stretched on, what started as a short delay turned into a lengthy wait. Around 45 minutes elapsed before help arrived, during which Benedetto remained surprisingly composed, crediting the presence of her fellow passengers for easing anxiety. “I honestly wasn’t that scared to be trapped because I wasn’t alone,” she reflected, noting that shared experiences in such situations can provide comfort.

However, as a wheelchair user, Benedetto was aware that her rescue would involve more complex logistics than her fellow passengers. Despite the uncertainty, she began mentally preparing for the potential challenges ahead. “I knew that my rescue plan was going to be a bit more sophisticated than the other girls,” she explained.

The arrival of the firefighters marked a pivotal moment in the ordeal. Benedetto described the responders as calm and professional, helping to alleviate the tension. Their method of extraction was unconventional: to safely remove her from the predicament, they positioned her face down on a ladder before gently lowering her to the nearest floor. “I honestly found it really unique that they got me out of the elevator by putting me on a ladder, face down,” she said, reflecting on the surreal nature of the event.

Benedetto, embracing the unusual occurrence, took to TikTok to share her experience. In her post, she labelled the situation as a “rare aesthetic” and thanked the Clemson Fire Department, combining humour and gratitude in her storytelling. “At the time, a trend was calling something a ‘rare aesthetic’, so I was following suit,” she noted, emphasising the role of humour in processing her experience.

The video resonated with many viewers, prompting discussions about individual experiences with accessibility challenges. Benedetto received an outpouring of support, with many sharing their stories and expressing admiration for her resilience. “A lot of people have been super kind and mainly commented on my physical appearance,” she shared, appreciating the connection forged through shared experiences.

In retrospect, Benedetto believes the incident has significantly influenced her perspective on emergency preparedness. “This incident has made me think more about what I would do if I was in emergency situations for sure,” she remarked. Being trapped between floors has encouraged her to consider and plan for scenarios she had previously overlooked.

As Benedetto continues her studies, the lessons from this unexpected episode may serve as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for emergencies, especially for those with special requirements. Her ability to find humour and strength in adversity underscores the resilience that many individuals with disabilities embody in their daily lives.