How to survive a plane crash

This probably depends on what type of crash you're in.  I'm not going to be able to help in a "total devastation" scenario, but here are some tips that might help you out in the event that the unthinkable happens.

1.  Sit in an aisle seat
I know that you love to look out the window, and if you should happen to drift off, the wall of the plane is right there to lean against.  Remember the last time you sat in a window seat?  Did you get a good look at the Vegetable Lasagna sitting next to you?  How about the tool sitting next to him.  Think about it.  You have to make it past these 2 geniuses in order to have any chance off that plane.  I know that you're thinking if the plane is in danger, they will move fast.  Really?  Have you ever seen one of those trampling scenes in a Walmart on the day after Thanksgiving.  Who's to say you won't get caught up in that?  Your best bet is to grab an aisle seat.  Even an aisle seat in the back of the plane is better than a window seat in the front (The one exception being the exit row).  If something happens you can assess the situation and get immediately into the aisle to get off the plane.

2.  Know your surroundings
Too often when people get on a plane, they think that they are in for a leisurely trip.  Look around the next time you're on a plane.  How many of the people around you look like they're camping rather than preparing for an emergency.  Can't tell you the last time I saw anyone pick up one of those cards in the seat back, or actually pay attention when the flight attendants are pointing out the exits.  HUGE MISTAKE!!!  You should absolutely commit to memory where all of the exits are, as well as how many rows are between you and the exit.  The first thing I do when I sit down is count the number of rows between myself and the exit.  If the cabin fills with smoke, you may not be able to see the exit.  In that scenario, the only thing you can do is feel your way to the exit.  By knowing how many rows are between you and the exit, you can anticipate if you can make it to your exit or need to seek another.  Also, on many occasions, there is an exit behind you that may be ignored by other passengers, particularly if you are sitting in the back of the plane.

3.  Have a plan
This is probably the most important.  What would you do if you were in a life threatening situation?  You can only think about so many circumstances.  Who knows what might happen, but you should at least have a basic plan for an emergency.  Remain alert during take off and landing.  These are the most likely times that there will be a problem.  Probably the most important part of the plan is to stay calm, however.  If you are frenetic, you may end up making poor decisions or overlooking important factors.

4.  Protect your head at all costs
Ever notice that when someone dies, this many times, is preceded by a period of unconsciousness.  If you are knocked out, you have no chance of getting off the plane alive unless a good Samaritan helps you.  Protect your head from getting jostled or possibly hitting it against the seat tray in front of you.  Tighten your seat belt so that you are secure in your seat and are not at risk of bouncing around.  Place your head between your legs with your hands over your head and protect at all costs.  Once the impact is over, this may be the only thing that enables you to walk away unharmed.