One Wisconsin woman’s normal workday recently took a bizarre and terrifying turn when she least expected it. Things got completely out of hand when she discovered firsthand that her simple trip to the workplace restroom turned into a claustrophobic ordeal she won’t soon forget.
At first, it seemed like an ordinary break, but the situation quickly escalated, leaving her trapped in a small, locked bathroom with no easy way out. The bathroom in question wasn’t your average flimsy stall. It was a heavy-duty metal door with a self-locking mechanism that engaged automatically when shut.
Things took a dire turn when the handle unexpectedly came off entirely, leaving the Wisconsin woman locked inside. Panic quickly set in as she realized her phone battery was low and cellular service was spotty, making it difficult to call for help.
Wisconsin Workday Turns Into a Bathroom Nightmare
She tried everything within reach. Prying, tugging, even using a coat hanger in a desperate attempt to free herself. Meanwhile, coworkers gathered outside, attempting to assist. But the stubborn door refused to budge. The situation grew increasingly alarming, with every passing minute heightening the sense of confinement and helplessness.
“Hope you are paid by the hour,” one Redditor snarks.
“That happened to me years ago, and the fire department had to come,” another adds.
“It would so be the day I learned I was claustrophobic,” one more chimes in.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of workplace safety, particularly in areas where heavy, self-locking doors are involved. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, keep a few strategies in mind.
Finally, a science teacher on site stepped in and managed to resolve the crisis, freeing her from the trapped stall. While the ordeal lasted only around twenty minutes, the experience felt much longer to the trapped employee, highlighting just how quickly a seemingly ordinary situation can turn hazardous.
Be Prepared For The Unthinkable
Things happen, but if you are a person who likes to try and prepare for the worst, here are a few expert tips that could help you out. That is, should you ever find yourself in a sticky situation. First, always ensure your phone is fully charged before entering areas with limited connectivity.
Check doors for loose handles, faulty latches, or signs of wear before relying on them. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures or tools available in your workplace, such as keys, maintenance access, or emergency buttons.
While the outcome was ultimately resolved without injury. The incident underscores how everyday objects, like a heavy bathroom door, can become unexpected sources of danger. For Wisconsin residents and people alike, it’s a reminder. Check the safety of workplace fixtures and always have a plan in case of emergencies. You never know when you just might need them.
Dylan Cook 
Sabrina Russell 
