3. While passengers in all seats of airplanes can be affected in crashes, statistics show that there have been fewer deaths in seats at the rear of the plane.

4. When you board the plane, count the number of seat rows to the nearest exit ahead of you and behind you. If smoke fills the cabin, you may have to feel your way to the exit.
5. Make sure your seat belt is fastened snugly around your pelvic area, not your stomach.

6. Always leave shade in your window open during take-off and landings so you can asses the outside conditions. If you're traveling over water, know where the life jackets and life rafts are stowed, and how to release them.

7. Pay attention to the flight attendant's safety briefings and instructions. The locations of the closest emergency exits may be different depending on the aircraft that you fly on and seat you are in.

8. Overhead storage bins may not be able to hold very heavy objects during turbulence, so store heavy objects elsewhere.

9. Keeping the seatbelt on while seated provides that extra protection you might need if the plane hits unexpected turbulence.

10. Always listen to the flight attendants' instructions. Their primary reason for being there is for your safety.

11. Know how to open regular and emergency doors and windows. If flight attendants are incapacitated, you may have to do it.

12. Wear cotton or wool. Synthetic fibers, like nylon or polyester, may melt into your skin in the event of a fire. Pantyhose can also burn when going down an evacuation slide from the friction.

13. Wear low-healed shoes, boots, or sneakers made from leather or canvas. High-heeled shoes will have to be removed before leaving the aircraft via an escape slide. This will slow your departure from the aircraft and put you at risk for severe injury from possible hazards such as broken glass, or metal debris. Avoid wearing sandals for the same reasons.

14. Don't drink too much alcohol. The pressurized cabin creates a thin atmosphere that causes alcohol to affect you much quicker and stronger than when you are on the ground at sea level. You need to have your wits about you and be able to listen to instructions in the event of an emergency.

15. In an emergency evacuation, don't pause to grab personal effects. Just go.

16. Know how to get into the "brace" position -- bending over with your head down and your hands grabbing your knees or ankles. And be alert for unusual motions that may signal trouble. Getting into the brace position then may prevent severe injuries.

17. In the unlikely event that you are involved in an emergency situation such as a precautionary emergency evacuation, follow the directions of the flight attendants and flight crew and exit the aircraft as quickly as possible.