BOGOTA, Colombia. — Rescue crews from around the world are working against the clock to find survivors trapped under rubble, as experts warn of a 72-hour window of opportunity to save those still missing.

Some civilians are also lining up to help.

Ramon Centeno, who was seen fleeing his Caracas apartment building on video, says it’s about solidarity.

“We are supporting each other, there is incredible solidarity, brother,” Centeno said.

The former political prisoner who spent four years in jail says he saw the face of death once again.

“In prison I saw the face of death, and in the earthquake I saw the face of death again,” he said.

Now he says he’s focused on collecting non-perishable supplies — scenes playing out around the world and at home.

Others, like Evelyn Batatino, are trying to figure out where to live. Her Caracas apartment was left with cracks, and she’s not sure if it’s safe.

“We are very scared,” Batatino said.

Some are now sleeping on the streets in tents, worried their buildings may be unsafe. Batatino says she needs to know another aftershock won’t come and affect the building.

“We need them to give us security, because the building is in very bad shape,” she said.

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Rescue crews race 72-hour window as earthquake victims remain trapped

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Cody Weddle