What symbol is used to indicate that all confirmed victims have been removed?

• A. X
• B. Check mark
• C. Circle
• D. Star

Answer: (A)

In this marking system, responders use simple symbols to convey the status of areas and victims at a collapsed structure. The X is used to signal that all confirmed victims have been removed from that area. It’s a clear, unambiguous marker that can be seen at a glance, which helps prevent revisiting the same space and guides teams to move on to other areas. Other marks, like a check mark, circle, or star, can carry different or less precise meanings in various marking schemes, so they’re not as universally understood for conveying complete victim removal. The X therefore provides a straightforward, universally recognizable indication that the area is fully cleared of victims.