Common Well Types and Disaster Characteristics of Underground Rescue Knowledge

Common Rescue Equipment and Safety Precautions

Rescue operations in underground environments require a wide range of specialized equipment to ensure both the safety of rescuers and the victims. The most essential tools include ropes, safety belts, harnesses, rescue tripods, fire ladders, and descent devices. These tools are crucial for lifting and lowering individuals in confined spaces. Since the process involves constant movement up and down, it is vital that the equipment functions reliably without failure. A third party should always be present on the surface to monitor and assist. The rope length must be at least twice the depth of the well to allow for safe operations and proper control during evacuation.

In addition to lifting equipment, excavation tools such as excavators, bulldozers, pile drivers, shovels, and crosshoes are often used to clear debris and access trapped individuals quickly. Manual excavation is too slow, especially in deep or complex situations, so heavy machinery is essential for increasing efficiency and reducing response time. This type of equipment plays a critical role in ensuring successful rescue missions.

Oxygen and gas supply systems are also vital, especially when dealing with hazardous environments. Devices like blowers, smoke extractors, air respirator cylinders, oxygen tanks, and mobile gas sources help provide fresh air to those trapped below. In more dangerous scenarios, these systems can mean the difference between life and death. Rescue teams may use mobile gas sources to support both the victims and themselves during prolonged operations.

To accurately assess the situation, detection equipment is necessary. Tools like "snake eyes" life detectors, thermal imaging cameras, toxic gas detectors, measuring tapes, and high-intensity lights help determine the position, condition, and potential dangers of those trapped. This information is crucial for planning the next steps in the rescue operation and minimizing risks.

Communication is another key factor in underground rescue efforts. With no signal in many deep wells, traditional phones and radios are ineffective. Instead, communication guidelines or specialized systems are used to maintain contact between the surface and the underground team. This allows for real-time guidance, psychological support, and technical coordination, all of which contribute to a successful outcome.

Understanding the types of wells and their associated risks is equally important. Urban pipeline wells, such as those for water, sewage, gas, and electricity, are often left uncovered or damaged, leading to accidental falls. In residential areas, poorly maintained sewers and untrained workers increase the likelihood of incidents. The buildup of harmful gases in such environments can be deadly within minutes.

Engineering wells, including abandoned mine shafts, pile wells, and digging pits, pose serious risks if not properly sealed. These structures can collapse or flood, causing major accidents. Similarly, old domestic wells, typically 0.7 to 2 meters in diameter and up to 30 meters deep, were once common but now present significant challenges due to aging infrastructure and unstable walls.

In rural areas, deep wells are commonly used for irrigation and groundwater extraction. However, many of these wells are small at the top, unsecured, and often left unattended. Due to limited emergency resources and low awareness of safety, children are particularly vulnerable to falling into these wells, making them a hidden danger in many communities.