According to experts, how long people can survive in earthquake debris depends on different factors. The severity of the injury, how long they are trapped in the rubble and weather conditions are among the most important factors. Depending on these factors, survival can be a week or, in very rare cases, longer.
After earthquakes, most rescues take place within the first day after the disaster. According to experts, after this time the chances of survival diminish with each passing day. Many earthquake victims are severely injured by falling rocks or other debris and buried under the ground, which is the leading cause of death.
What is the Importance of the First Hour in Serious Injuries?
According to experts, the situation of individuals facing crush injuries and limb amputations is critical. If those people are not removed within an hour, in that golden hour, the chances of survival are very low. According to experts, the more serious the injuries, the less likely they are to survive.
If a person has a head injury, other severe injuries or has limited breathing, the chances of surviving the day after the disaster are reduced. It is therefore very important to be able to assess the level of injury.
Treatment after rescue is equally important. Even people who are rescued from under the rubble can die from crush syndrome. This is common in people trapped under collapsed walls in disasters such as earthquakes.
Crush syndrome is caused by crushing and damage to the muscles of people trapped under rubble due to the earthquake. Fluids, some proteins and some ions such as potassium, which should normally be present in healthy muscle cells, can leave the muscle tissue after trauma and enter the bloodstream, causing kidney failure and sudden cardiac arrest.
What Factors Contribute to the Survival of Earthquake Survivors?
According to experts, proper positioning can provide protection and access to air under the rubble. Being able to take the crouch, grab and hold position can create space and pockets of air that can ensure survival. It is important to get down on your knees and get under a table or other sturdy object and hold on tightly until the shaking subsides.
According to experts, taking shelter in a safe area, such as a sturdy table, can increase the chances of survival. Since every emergency is different, nothing can be said for sure, but the initial search and rescue efforts also vary according to the preparedness of local communities.
What not to do in the rubble?
Even if it is impossible to know exactly when an earthquake will occur or when a building will collapse, experts say that the position taken in an emergency is crucial for survival. Therefore, the things not to do under the collapse are as follows;
- Matches and lighters should not be lit
- Do not move and do not lift dust
- Mouth and nose should be covered with a handkerchief or clothing
- Try to give your location to search and rescue teams by banging on pipes or walls and whistle.
- Shouting is a last resort, as shouting can lead to swallowing dust at risky levels.