How to survive and help without putting yourself at risk during an earthquake: Mexican topo responds

Iván Barrientos Salas, a communications and logistics specialist with the Mexican civilian organization Brigada de Rescate Topos Tlatelolco A. C., has shared critical insights on surviving and assisting during earthquakes. The organization, founded in 1986 following Mexico’s devastating 8.1 magnitude earthquake, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Certified by Insarag, the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, a global network spanning over 90 countries and organizations under the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, this group has been involved in rescue operations in Turkey, Nepal, Haiti, Indonesia, and recently in Venezuela. Barrientos emphasizes that preparedness begins long before an earthquake strikes. He highlights the importance of understanding the structural composition of one's home, establishing evacuation routes, preparing emergency kits, and knowing how to respond effectively with children, elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and pets. His experience in rescue missions and training volunteers underscores the necessity of personalized safety measures rather than relying on generalized advice. For decades, common recommendations such as taking shelter beneath doorframes or desks have become ingrained in public consciousness. However, Barrientos warns that these guidelines are not universally applicable. He explains that each building, room, and office is constructed differently, making standardized instructions ineffective. Only architects can accurately assess a structure’s integrity, and thus, personal knowledge of one’s living space becomes crucial. The concept of a "triangle of life," often cited in survival guides, is another myth that Barrientos challenges. Based on experiences from rescue teams, he notes that survivors have been found in diverse spaces, indicating that survival depends more on the strength of structures than on geometric positioning. He stresses that robust elements such as beams, columns, and load-bearing walls offer greater protection. Understanding construction materials and engineering principles is vital for rescuers, according to Barrientos. He describes masonry as a superficial element designed primarily for division rather than structural support. This distinction is essential for identifying safe zones during rescue efforts. Preparedness also involves recognizing that the moment an earthquake occurs should not turn into a race against time. Barrientos questions the notion of the first 30 seconds and the belief that there is a fixed window for survival. In low-rise buildings, evacuation plans must be pre-evaluated through drills. The focus should shift from determining how long an earthquake lasts to assessing how quickly individuals can reach safety based on their building’s characteristics. The Brigada de Rescate Topos Tlatelolco A. C. continues to play a key role in disaster response, leveraging both local expertise and international collaboration to enhance community resilience. Their ongoing work reflects a commitment to education, preparation, and effective action in the face of seismic threats.