Escape rooms have become a favorite entertainment choice in recent years. Everybody loves them; they’re fun and challenging, and they give you a sense of teamwork that no other indoor activity can offer. However, apart from the fun factor, escape rooms run on some safety escape room rules and guidelines that you must follow.
They are meant to ensure you’re having a good time safely and not restrict your creativity. Here’s a comprehensive list of those escape room game rules that you must abide by while making the most of your escape room journey.
Are you new to escape rooms? Read our guide on the topic: how does an escape room work?
Standard Escape Room Rules and Guidelines
Though every escape room has unique rules, most are the same because they are usually built on standard policies. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of standard escape room rules that, if you know once, ’ll work most of the time.
No Phones or Tools are Allowed
Escape rooms are designed to be immersive, and no extra tools are allowed inside them. These tools will only distract you and can be a source of spoilers for others. For instance, if you take your phone in there and click photos, you’re not only wasting your given time to escape, but you might also be ruining someone else’s experience.
Follow Staff Instructions
Listen to the pre-game instructions carefully, which are meant for your safety. Your game master will give you some safety instructions, explain the whole layout of the place, and provide valuable tips for a thrilling experience. And you’re supposed to listen to them and follow the instructions.
Know All Emergency Exits
Even though escape rooms are supposed to be fun, safety comes first. Making sure you’re safe and secure in a place is one of the very first rules for escape rooms. You must know about all the emergency exits beforehand and access them in an emergency.
P.S. If you have any pre-existing medical condition like anxiety, claustrophobia, heart problem, or anything, inform the staff beforehand so they can help you when needed. Some escape rooms also allow breaks for conditions like claustrophobia so that you can enjoy your escape room experience like everyone else.
Alcohol or Drugs are Not Allowed
Participating in an escape room while intoxicated is a dealbreaker. Most escape room rules strictly prohibit this, and you can be asked to leave or not allowed entry in the first place if found drunk. This is very important for your safety and the people around you.
Avoid Leaking Details to the Public
One of the most essential escape-the-room game rules is not killing the buzz for others. And that’s why most escape rooms require you to sign a confidentiality agreement, according to which you’re not supposed to overshare the details of the experience with the public.
For instance, posting the answer to a puzzle on social media or letting people know where a specific clue is hidden. This is not only ethically wrong, but you’re also breaking the confidentiality agreement.
Respect the Space and the Props
Make sure you don’t damage the property while trying to break through. Handle all items with care and try not to push too hard, especially if you don’t apply physical force.
If something is not opening, there’s a high chance it’s only a decoration. You can ask your game master whether an object is your clue in the game before attempting to open it again.
Don’t Look Under/Over/Behind Objects
Game masters design escape rooms in a way where clues are hidden in plain sight only. So you’re not supposed to look under/over/behind objects. It’s an essential escape-the-room game rule that does not turn things over or try to look behind furniture for clues. Otherwise, you can be asked to leave without the right to a refund.
Don’t Mess with Marked Objects
In an escape room, you’ll come across objects marked or labeled with signs or stickers, and you must not mess with them. For instance, you should avoid such dangerous things if there’s an electrical system, a prop, some wiring, or a fragile décor.
Prioritize Safety
Look out for your safety and those around you. Do not try to overrule the space and miss out on the most essential ingredient of this game: teamwork. Make informed decisions and do not put yourself in dangerous situations, like getting on shaky furniture or pushing a heavy object.
Be Mindful of the Age Restrictions
Another fundamental rule for escape room games is to consider the age requirements. Though escape rooms are a fun, family activity, sometimes some themes are age-restricted. You’re not supposed to take your kids along. You should check the age requirements before booking.
Respect the Game Duration
From the moment you enter the room, the clock starts ticking, and you must comply with it. Make sure you’re making every second count and respecting the time duration. Once the timer stops, leave the room immediately. This will not only make your challenge fun and fair but also ensure smooth scheduling for others.
Rules for Escape Rooms of Different Types
While most escape rooms follow standard rules and guidelines, you can expect a slight variation depending on theme, difficulty level, and location. Therefore, you need to take a moment and familiarize yourself with those specific rules before booking a particular adventure. For example:
Escape Room Rules Based on Themes and Difficulty Level
You might come across a no-touch policy in horror-themed escape rooms when it comes to escape room rules based on themes and difficulty levels. Or no hint of usage for complex, mystery room themes.
Moreover, if your escape room theme is action-based, you might have to follow a dress code. And there’s a high chance that kids are not allowed in a room involving high physical activity.
Escape Room Rules Based on Location and Regulations
Rules for escape rooms can also vary depending on the location and regulations. For instance, some countries may have strict safety regulations, requiring emergency exits at all times, while others may allow fully locked rooms.
In the same way, franchised escape rooms will have standardized rules, while an independent venue can offer more customized guidelines.
FAQs
Are escape rooms safe?
Escape rooms, in general, are designed for fun purposes, and you can’t get hurt. But if you push the limits or do not follow strict safety rules, you might get into a minor accident. So it’s essential to respect the space, follow escape room game rules, and be aware of your surroundings.
Are escape rooms locked?
Yes, most of them are. But all escape rooms have emergency exits, in case you’re anxious about closed spaces or need a break. And they’re always open. Ask your game master about the emergency exits before entering the room.
What if I need to use the bathroom in the game?
In that case, you can use the emergency exit or ask for a restroom break. But it’s better to use the facilities beforehand to save yourself and your team members time without disruption.
Can I bring my snacks to the escape room?
It’s a fundamental escape room rule that no eatables are allowed inside. You can’t bring your snacks or drinks inside the escape room. If you want a refreshment, some escape rooms might provide snacks and juice at the end of the game. But don’t take anything inside the room.
Experience the Thrill Safely and Responsibly!
While most escape room adventures are designed to be thrilling, remember there’s a limit to everything. And as a responsible visitor, you should abide by those limits. Ensure your safety and those around you.
At Edge Escape Rooms, we take your safety very seriously. Our game masters will guide you through all the essential escape room rules and safety measures before you begin.
Follow the guidelines, respect the space, and focus on what truly matters. We’ll make sure you have a great time while remaining safe.
Book your next escape room adventure with Edge Escape Rooms today and enjoy a thrilling, safe, and well-guided experience!
