Appendix - Entering damaged buildings (when necessary)

• Use commonsense about whether or not it is likely to be safe (err on the side of caution)
• Be prepared for delayed collapsing or an aftershock doing additional damage
  • carry whistle (help rescuers find you) and small flashlight
  • always leave someone outside with a list of the team
    • list by name _and_ description
    • don't want subsequent rescuers to leave one of you behind (they might count one of the original victims as one of your team)
    • useful function for those who are not best choice for going inside (e.g., elderly, small adults, "the clumsy",...)
  • have a safe path for getting out if trouble develops
    • each time you move into a new area in the building, rethink your escape path, and get it planted firmly in your mind
    • check that it won't be blocked by things falling
    • consider whether rubble and fallen objects will impede your getting out
    • in case your primary escape path becomes blocked, also have alternative paths in mind
  • minimize your time inside by thinking first about what you are likely to need to do and what supplies you will need
    • tape, string, rope
    • trash bags, carry bags, buckets, broom
    • tools (hammer, pry bar, screwdriver, knife,...)
  • prioritize your activities for maximal impact
    • retrieve things you have immediate need for
    • prevent/reduce future damage
      • secure items that might fall in aftershock
        • put on floor
        • tie or tape cabinets shut (so nothing else will fall out). Do not spend time trying to get breakables out of cabinets -- this is typically a slow process and should be done later in the cleanup process
    • cleanup spills and broken items that could cause additional damage
    • postponing cleaning up things that are unlikely to get worse and unlikely to cause safety problems for you