Injury

Sharp rocks can cause cuts, bruises, fractures, or other injuries.

Hypothermia

Underground environments can be surprisingly cold, particularly when a person remains motionless for an extended period.

Dehydration

A trapped person may have no access to drinking water.

Exhaustion

Trying repeatedly to escape can consume enormous amounts of energy.

Breathing difficulties

A restricted position can sometimes interfere with normal breathing, particularly if the chest is compressed.

Falling debris

Movement around unstable rock can create additional hazards for both the trapped person and rescuers.

For these reasons, rescue teams must consider the entire environment—not just the person who needs help.

Why Rescuers Can't Simply Pull Him Out

From the photograph, the opening looks large enough to see the person's head and part of his body.

That can create the impression that rescuers should simply grab him and pull.

In reality, the widest visible opening isn't necessarily the widest part of the passage.

A person's body may be trapped farther inside.

The shoulders may be caught.