RASSS Rescue

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: Casualty rescued from a collapsed building in Zebuthiri Township, Naypyidaw, Myanmar earlier this morning March 30, 2025 by the Operation Lionheart (OLH) of the Singapore Civil Defense Force (Search nd Rescue Team).

A strong 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, also affecting Bangkok, where hundreds of people poured out of buildings in panic after feeling the tremors. The epicentre was about 17.2 km from the city of Mandalay.

𝐊𝐄𝐘 𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐒:

If you find yourself trapped under rubble during an earthquake, follow these steps to maximize your chances of survival and rescue:

1. Stay Calm:
Control your breathing to avoid panic and conserve oxygen. Avoid moving excessively, as this may dislodge debris and worsen your situation.

2. Protect Your Airway:
Cover your nose and mouth with cloth (e.g., clothing) to filter dust. Avoid shouting unless necessary; use other signals to conserve energy and reduce dust inhalation.

3. Check for Injuries:
Assess yourself for injuries. If bleeding, apply pressure with available fabric. Avoid removing impaled objects; stabilize them if possible.

4.Signal for Help:
Tap on pipes, walls, or solid objects three times (universal distress signal).
Use a phone flashlight or whistle intermittently if available.
Shout only as a last resort when you hear rescuers nearby.

5.Conserve Resources:
Ration water (if available) and avoid consuming liquids from unsafe sources.
Stay still to conserve energy and body heat. Use clothing or debris for warmth if cold.

6. Create Safe Space:
Gently shift debris only if it’s safe to create breathing room. Avoid major movements.
Shield yourself from falling debris by staying under sturdy objects (e.g., tables).

7.Stay Alert:
Listen for rescue teams (shouting, machinery, or footsteps) and respond when they’re near.
Follow instructions from rescuers (e.g., stay silent if they’re listening for survivors).

8.Mental Resilience:
Focus on positive thoughts and hope. Engage in mental exercises to stay calm. Rest intermittently to preserve strength.

Important Notes:
Do not light matches or lighters (risk of gas explosions).

Avoid digging yourself out unless escape is clearly safe and nearby.

Rescue teams are trained to locate survivors—your priority is to stay protected, signal efficiently, and wait for help.