What is a common misconception about rescuing victims from collapsed structures?

The idea that victims are always located on the surface or easily accessible is a common misconception in structural collapse rescue scenarios. In reality, victims may be trapped beneath debris, inside voids created by the collapse, or in areas that are not immediately visible or accessible. The complexities of a collapse can result in unpredictable victim locations, which can drastically affect rescue strategies and operations.

Rescuers must often conduct thorough assessments and utilize specialized techniques to locate and access victims safely. This may involve shoring up structures, utilizing search cameras, or employing trained dogs. The misconception that victims are easily reachable can lead to hasty actions that compromise the safety of both the rescuers and the trapped individuals. Hence, recognizing the potential for victims to be in difficult-to-access locations is crucial for planning effective and safe rescue operations.