The majority of the casualties due to strong earthquake events are caused by collapsed buildings. As effective retrofitting of vulnerable buildings is time- and cost-intensive, even highly developed countries as the USA and Japan cannot ensure comprehensive protection. For this reason improved damage estimation models as well as tools for emergency response planning and support of the rescue works are playing an increasing role. This paper presents current research works and results of the University of Karlsruhe in this field. First a damage estimation tool based on geo information systems is described, calculating damages directly on the basis of building behaviour under earthquake load. Furthermore typical damage patterns of collapsed buildings with regard to the used search and rescue techniques are presented. A procedure for the fast survey of the spatial geometry of collapsed structures is described by the example of the strong quake in Gujarat/lndien in 2001. Finally an expert system supporting the search and rescue team decisions regarding the selection of suitable rescue procedures is described and specially developed auxiliary tools for standard construction machines allowing the safe use of heavy equipment are shown.
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