Umbrella etiquette

I think I witnessed at least 3 near-blinding incidents on Wednesday. Standing outside the subway, I watched as time and again somebody would open their ubrella in the crowded stairwell and it would pop open into somebody else's face. So here are a few words to the wise.

Umbrellas are constructed in such a way that they have pointy protrusions in every direction. Conveniently, they are carried so said protrusions are at eye-level. Now, you may forget these facts when you are trying to avoid getting soaking wet; an honest effort would be appreciated.

If you can, try to open your umbrella in an uncrowded area, or wait for a clearing. From what I can see there are two main opening techniques:

The Overhead - this method is performed by reaching far above your head and then directing the opening action directly upward. This works extremely well for taller people, but do not attempt if you are short or in a stairway.

The Forward'n'Up - the open is initiated in the direction you are currently facing. Then you swing the umbrella above your head or to its disired position. There is more to say about this technique. It helps avoid eye injury to people standing around you. If the handle is held to the side of or close to the body, its attack range is significantly reduced. Take care to swing the opened umbrella slowly, it will help to reduce inkuries of those standing directly behind you.

Finally, while super convenient, the push-button umbrellas are usually the most likely to cause an injury. Consider muffling your open by slowing down the spring loaded action.

Oh, final word on rainy weather, keep away from street puddles! There's little chance your umbrella will help you out when a cab goes buzzing by and you are in the splash zone.