The greatest chance for survival in a collapse occurs within the first 24 hours. What percentage of those who can be saved are typically rescued during that period?

• A. First 48 hours; 60%
• B. First 24 hours; 81%
• C. First 12 hours; 70%
• D. First 72 hours; 50%

Answer: (B)

The strongest chance for a trapped person to be rescued comes in the first 24 hours after collapse. In that window, about 81% of those who can be saved are typically found and extracted before conditions worsen and access becomes more difficult for rescuers. After that initial day, survival chances drop as factors like limited air, dehydration, injuries, and unstable debris hinder both the victim and the rescue effort. So the best fit is the first 24 hours with around 81% of potential saves occurring in that period.