If at any time a rescuer hears a noise or call from within the rubble pile (or anything that they think may be a response), they should point with a straight arm in the direction that they think that the noise is coming from. The Team Leader can then adjust the operation and move team members to help in pinpointing the exact location of the trapped casualty. A victim marking can also be placed to show where the victim may be located.

Once verbal contact is made with a trapped person, try to gather information such as:
 * How are you trapped?
 * What are your injuries?
 * What size void are you in?
 * Are there any visible openings in your vicinity?
 * Is/was anyone else with you?

Maintain contact with the victim if possible. This maintains their morale, relieves discomfort, ensures rescuers are working in the right direction, gives information about falling debris or changing conditions and monitors their mental and medical state.

Victim identity

Establish the identity of the victim. This accounts for missing people and assists police.

You can do this by:
 * Asking the victim
 * Asking other victims
 * Asking bystanders
 * Checking documentation on the victim (such as their wallet)
 * Checking against other assembly lists (such as class lists or passenger manifests)