One example of this is she is tricked into getting into a balloon which is then set free and out of control. Others involve escaped lions, Indian tribes, bombs and various traps and kidnaps. Pauline escapes death often with the help of her beau Harry (Crane Wilbur) but not suspecting Koerner, he is free to try again next time!
Pearl White became the original serial queen, starring in a number of highly popular serials. She was notable for doing many of her own stunts, some of which did cause her life changing injuries. In many ways the serial is a bit obvious and nonsense but it had a huge influence on future serials and pop culture.