British professional rescue team share experiences in earthquake rescue

The British Fire Department's search and rescue teams have frequently engaged in international disaster relief efforts, gaining valuable insights and lessons from their experiences in earthquake rescue. These lessons highlight the importance of strategic planning, professional training, and sustained operations during critical moments.
1. Accurate Understanding of Survivor Survival Time
There is a common belief that people buried under rubble for two days still have a chance to survive, and those found after six or seven days are considered "miraculous." However, experienced rescuers see things differently. They understand that collapsed buildings often contain numerous small spaces, allowing some victims to survive for extended periods. For example, in 1985, an infant was rescued a week after the Mexico City earthquake, and a 9-year-old boy was found alive 15 days later. These cases show that even with limited hope, rescue efforts should never be abandoned.
2. Deploying Professional Rescue Teams and Training Non-Professionals
In many disasters, untrained individuals attempt to assist but lack the necessary skills to safely locate and extract survivors. This can lead to missed opportunities and even additional dangers. Moreover, the ruins of collapsed buildings pose various risks—such as unstable structures and hidden hazards—that non-professionals may not recognize. Professional rescuers, on the other hand, are equipped with proper tools, knowledge, and experience to minimize risks and maximize survival chances. Therefore, it is crucial to involve as many trained professionals as possible and provide emergency training to volunteers to ensure safer and more effective rescue operations.
3. Continuous Search and Rescue Efforts
After an earthquake, the process of clearing debris is complex and dangerous, especially due to aftershocks and unstable structures. While removing rubble, rescuers must remain vigilant and continue searching for survivors who may still be trapped. This requires patience, precision, and persistence. Rescue operations should continue until all buildings have been thoroughly inspected, the debris is fully cleared, and there is no longer any hope of finding survivors. Only then should the mission be officially concluded.
By applying these principles, rescue teams can significantly improve their effectiveness and save more lives in the aftermath of natural disasters.