Category: In The Force

These ProCom officers rushed to help when every second counted

Post author By Ben
Post date March 17, 2023
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From left: SGT (2) Muhammad Nur Syahmi, SGT (1) Muhammad Izuwan and SGT (1) Muhammad Khairul Anam receiving the SCDF Community Life Saviour Award for their rescue efforts.

Three off-duty ProCom officers were honoured with the SCDF Community Life Saviour Award for their calm assistance rendered in an emergency.

It might be one of many people’s greatest fears: Seeing a loved one collapse and fall unconscious, with no one around to help except yourself.

Thankfully for one elderly couple on 21 September last year, three off-duty Protective Security Command (ProCom) officers from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) happened to be passing by around 11am, after completing their morning deployment shift.

SGT (1) Muhammad Khairul Anam Bin Abdul Halim, SGT (1) Muhammad Izuwan Bin Kamsani and SGT (2) Muhammad Nur Syahmi Bin Mazlan were walking to the public open carpark near Block 343, Clementi Avenue 5 when they realised there was a commotion taking place within the carpark.

“When we got nearer, we understood that there might be a medical emergency,” said SGT (1) Anam. “Without thinking, we instantly rushed over to assist.”

A MEDICAL EMERGENCY

An elderly man was desperately carrying out cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on his unconscious wife, who was lying in the middle of the carpark road with a bloodied face.

Upon finding out that he had been performing CPR for 15 to 20 minutes already, SGT (1) Izuwan asked him if he could help as the man was sweating and fast becoming exhausted.

“While my friend Izuwan continued with CPR, I asked the man some questions like ‘How did it happen?’ ‘Did you call an ambulance yet?’” recounted SGT (2) Syahmi.

According to SGT (1) Anam, the aim was to calm the man down and get a full account of the incident. They were thus able to give the necessary information to the attending paramedics, and assisted the ambulance to the exact location where it was needed.

In the meantime, SGT (1) Izuwan was quelling his own internal anxiety about performing CPR on a person suffering a real-life medical crisis – the first time he had ever done so.

“I felt responsible,” he explained. “I had to do my best because I knew that her loved ones were depending on me to save her.”

He stayed calm and composed, and made sure to follow his training precisely: “The situation will make you nervous, but you have to make sure to count, and not rush. I had to just trust what I learnt in performing CPR.”

When the ambulance arrived shortly after, the paramedics took over and the three ProCom officers fell back, knowing that the elderly woman was in safe hands. Still unconscious, she was conveyed to hospital along with her husband.

SGT (1) Izuwan made sure to follow up on her condition afterwards. It turned out that she had suffered a cardiac arrest when she was crossing the carpark towards the void deck. The fall caused her to suffer injuries to her face – hence the blood – and unconsciousness, but she is now in the process of recovering without any other major complications.

RAISING AWARENESS OF CPR SKILLS

The three ProCom officers’ unhesitating actions were recognised in the form of the Singapore Civil Defence Force Community Life Saviour Award.

Downplaying his own efforts, SGT (1) Izuwan said: “While we didn’t do much, I feel that every second counted in this situation where there was a life that needed to be saved. Looking at how helpless the victim was as she lay on the floor unconscious prompted me to come in and assist. I think it’s normal for everyone to react that way.”

The sudden nature of the event also offered some food for thought. Said SGT (1) Anam: “We learnt that we might come across such incidents unexpectedly, even when we are not on duty. And as NSmen from SPF, to ignore such a situation happening in front of us does not seem to be the right thing to do.”

While SGT (2) Syahmi admitted that even during his National Service days with ProCom, he had never encountered an incident where CPR was needed, putting his CPR skills to the test has given SGT (1) Izuwan the confidence to use them again if needed in the future.

“I feel it’s important to have at least the CPR skillset – not only to help others, but maybe even your close ones around you,” he pointed out. “I hope the Community Life Saviour Award brings awareness of this to everyone in Singapore.”

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Featured In The Force

The valuable lessons these Home Team volunteers have learned by helping others

Post author By scott
Post date March 9, 2023
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Mr Teng Jia Han, a Cadet Inspector with the National Police Cadet Corps, believes that volunteering has helped him become a better person.

These Home Team volunteers share why helping others and paying it forward matters to them.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: HOME TEAM VOLUNTEER NETWORK

The Home Team Volunteer Network interviewed three volunteers as they share their love for volunteering and giving back to the community, from safeguarding Singapore to learning life-saving skills to helping former inmates.

TENG JIA HAN, CADET INSPECTOR, NATIONAL POLICE CADET CORPS

As a Cadet Inspector who mentors NPCC cadets, Jia Han believes that the friendships made and experiences shared has helped him become a better person. Through his interactions with fellow volunteers and youth, he has also learnt many important life lessons.

“I have learnt so much from volunteering, even more than I have contributed,” he said.

Jia Han will continue to volunteer as an NPCC Cadet Inspector, saying: “Volunteering gives me the opportunity to share my knowledge and life experiences with younger cadets.”

MARIA MOHAMMAD, BEFRIENDER, SINGAPORE PRISON SERVICE

Counselling and inspiring former inmates is a key part of Maria Mohammad’s role. She said: “The people that I have helped are also resilient, going against all odds and keeping strong through thick and thin.”

Not only does she inspire former inmates, but Maria also learns from the people she meets. She said: “They motivate me to spread love amongst others and always be positive in every situation.”

LOH PEI YI, NTU CIVIL DEFENCE LIONHEARTER

For Pei Yi, it is a privilege to be a Civil Defence Lionhearter (CDLH). “I love being a CDLH! It is a privilege imparting life-saving skills to members of the public who come from all walks of life.”

She also enjoys the sense of camaraderie. Pei Yi said: “My team had to work out creative ways to engage our CDLH members and public during the pandemic, like crafting our very own Civil Defence-themed virtual games.”

Her volunteering journey not only helps her develop as a person, but also learn from others. As such, her love for her community makes her determined to do her best to help build a nation of lifesavers and make Civil Defence relevant to the NTU fraternity.

Find out more how you can make a difference in your community. Join the Home Team volunteers today!

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Featured In The Force

When lifesaving meets caregiving

Post author By scott
Post date March 9, 2023
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Assistant Commissioner (AC) Wesley Ho, Director Logistics of the Singapore Civil Defence Force, flagging off the trishaw rides for the Thye Hua Kwan Senior Care Centre (THKSCC) seniors.

SCDF ORNSmen and their community partners spent a meaningful day giving back to seniors at the Thye Hua Kwan Senior Care Centre at Kaki Bukit.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: SCDF

On 25 October 2022, the Civil Resources Unit (CRU) under Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF)’s Logistics Department, partnered with Thye Hua Kwan Senior Care Centre at Kaki Bukit (THKSCC) to organise a charity event based on the theme “When Lifesaving Meets Caregiving”. The SCDF Operational Ready National Servicemen (ORNSmen) from CRU HQ, Bravo Company, served as SCDF’s charity ambassadors and passionately contributed to the event’s success.

Assistant Commissioner (AC) Wesley Ho, Director of Logistics Department and his team of officers also volunteered at the event, which commenced with the SCDF ORNSmen giving special trishaw rides to the THKSCC seniors around the Kaki Bukit neighbourhood. The trishaw was provided by Cycling Without Age (CWA), a registered charity that runs innovative programmes to engage and empower seniors to live out their best years in active settings.

A NOSTALGIC RIDE

The THKSCC seniors enjoyed the lush greenery and company of the SCDF ORNSmen, who took time outside their In-Camp Training, learning how to handle a trishaw and act as safety marshals during the event.

“It is a great opportunity for SCDF to partner THKSCC and engage the seniors in this meaningful charity event,” said LTC (NS) Marcus Lee, Commander CRU. “The trishaw was a common mode of transport back in the days when the seniors were much younger. By having the seniors ride the trishaw, we hope this could bring back some fond memories for them.”

Apart from SCDF, other community partners such as The Food Bank SG and FILOS Community Services Ltd donated food and daily necessities which were packed into “care” packs. These care packs were distributed by SCDF ORNSmen to the households of 55 THKSCC seniors, as well as those seniors who attended the charity event.

Last but not least, a team of ORNSmen befriended the seniors at the care centre to engage and connect with them on a deeper and personal level. The seniors warmed up quickly to the ORNSmen, with some even sharing their cherished life stories and experiences.

“As we work towards building A Nation of Lifesavers, it is important that we take time to remember the seniors as well as the less fortunate in the community and do what we can as an organisation to help improve lives apart from our core duties of emergency response,” said MAJ (NS) New Wee Beng, Deputy Commander CRU.

SPARKING NEW PASSIONS

For many of the ORNSmen and NSFs, it was their first time volunteering, and it sparked their interest to explore more opportunities in the future.

“Besides performing our duty of protecting and saving lives and property at the frontlines, this charity event allows me to engage and contribute to the community in a new way. It is something refreshing and adds to the meaningfulness of being called back for In-Camp Training to serve with the Lifesaving Force,” said SGT (NS) Syed Ali Bin Syed Abdul Rahman.

“Interacting with the elderlies helped me to understand them better and appreciate the challenges that they may face each day. It was indeed a rewarding experience for me and other NSFs as we brought smiles to the elderlies and helped make their day a joyful one,” said Lance Corporal (NSF) Jeremy Lai.

The SCDF would like to thank THKSCC and its community partners for helping to make this meaningful charity event a success!

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In The Force

Home Team Volunteer Network: Giving and growing in 2022

Post author By scott
Post date February 20, 2023
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Ms Carlyn Koo began volunteering with the Citizens on Patrol scheme at the start of the pandemic.

Home Team volunteers look back on their 2022 experiences with the Home Team Volunteer Network.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: HOME TEAM VOLUNTEER NETWORK

From helping to keep our streets safe, to learning about civil defence and helping to keep others safe from drugs, these Home Team Volunteer Network (HTVN) volunteers reflect on how the easing of restrictions has made their work more rewarding and fulfilling.

CARLYN KOO, CITIZENS ON PATROL VOLUNTEER

Carlyn enrolled in the Citizens on Patrol (COP) scheme when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Consequently, due to safe-distancing measures, physical interactions were limited — so she was especially thrilled when COP’s patrols resumed after a temporary suspension for several months.

“Volunteering in 2022 was exciting! It felt great to be back and giving back to my community and neighbourhood,” she shared.

NUR ALYSHA, 16^thBATCH CADET LIEUTENANT, NATIONAL CIVIL DEFENCE CADET CORPS (NCDCC)

Alysha’s immense relief at the easing of restrictions is understandable. She said: “I did not get to experience some of the in-person courses such as Unit Drill Instructor and the practical components of the Specialisation Course.

“Due to Covid-19, some of the in-person courses were suspended, but now that the restrictions have eased, I was given the opportunity to join the planning committee for the Urban Adventure Civil Defence Skills Challenge 2022. I am so excited and thrilled to be a part of this!”

Alysha finds her volunteering experience eye-opening and meaningful, as she gets to expand her knowledge in hard skills such as foot drills and soft skills like critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills.

JEREMY CHUA HAN XIANG, ANTI-DRUG ADVOCATE (ADA), ANTI-DRUG ABUSE ADVOCACY NETWORK (A3 NETWORK) SCHEME

Jeremy’s volunteering experiences in 2022 proved to be enriching, as he better understood the importance of ADA’s work in supporting and promoting Singapore’s anti-drug cause.

“Through our training, exposure and activities, we better appreciate the work we do in the community to keep our families safe from the harmful effects of drug abuse,” he said.

Find out more how you can make a difference in your community. Volunteer with the Home Team Volunteer Network today!

Featured In The Force

Help from new technology, guided by core principles

Post author By scott
Post date February 10, 2023
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DAC (NS) Shah (back row, middle) and some members of his key appointment holders and responsibility appointment holders team, during a weapons handling training session at TransCom Base last year.

TransCom NS Commander DAC (NS) Mohammad Nurizham Shah; and SC/CPL Ryan Lui, an Assistant Ops Field Instructor with TransCom, share their thoughts on how technology has increased the effectiveness of servicemen even as it shapes how they interact with the public.

PHOTOS: DAC (NS) SHAH AND SC/CPL RYAN LUI

In over 25 years of service, DAC (NS) Mohammad Nurizham Shah Bin Abdullah has experienced and witnessed plenty of change within the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the environment it operates in.

As the National Service (NS) Commander of Transcom, DAC (NS) Shah works with fellow NS Key Appointment Holders and their regular counterparts to ensure that NSmen are equipped with the skills needed to protect Singapore’s Public Transport System. While technology has increased the effectiveness of TransCom officers, certain tenets – like the SPF’s core values of courage, loyalty, integrity and fairness – remain unchanged and form the bedrock of how full-time officers and NSmen perform their duties.

FUTUREPROOFING SECURITY OPERATIONS WITH TECHNOLOGY

Technology has helped offset the dual challenge of a declining birth rate – which translates to a smaller pool of NSFs – and a rapidly expanding MRT network. Singapore’s current rail network is about 200km in length, but this will be extended to about 360km by 2030 with the completion of new routes, like the Thomson-East Coast line and Cross Island line.

Apart from more advanced weapons and training aids, TransCom leverages technology to increase the effectiveness of its officers. “Technology such as CCTV cameras and data analytics will enhance policing efforts in solving and preventing crime,” says DAC (NS) Shah.

IN THE PUBLIC EYE

While technology has been a force multiplier, it has – in the form of social media and mobile devices – also changed how servicemen interact with the public. This, according to DAC (NS) Shah, has presented new challenges to servicemen today, compared to when he was an NSF himself. “This intense public scrutiny in crowded places is something which TransCom officers have to deal with every day,” he says. “They are often on foot patrol, and unlike conventional ground officers, cannot return to the patrol car while on duty.”

The prevalence of mobile devices, social media accounts and excellent mobile broadband coverage mean that anyone has the ability to become a content provider. However, content without context can create unnecessary complications. “We do have commuters taking videos of policeman at work and circulating them on social media,” DAC (NS) Shah shares. “Most of the videos only show part of the incident and may be taken out of context. Therefore, we always advise the public to refrain from uploading or re-sharing such videos.” He adds that SPF’s Facebook page provides updates to the public on the actual scenario in an incident. “We understand the pressure faced by our officers and have assured them that as long as they carry out their duties professionally, we will always be there to defend them against any allegations.” he stresses.

DUTIFUL DILIGENCE

This commitment to duty is a value that SC/CPL Ryan Lui Ching Yiu is very familiar with. As an Assistant Ops Field Instructor, he assists full-time officers to train TransCom officers in police contact tactics, weapon handling and first responder training.

He is also deployed to patrol the MRT network, especially during major events such as the National Day Parade and New Year’s celebrations “NS has taught me to be responsible and also to complete all task that have been assigned to me, as this may have a direct or indirect impact on others,” says SC/CPL Lui. “This has clearly been outlined within my work as a police officer from managing my administrative work as a trainer to handling incidents within the MRT system as a patrol officer,” he adds. “Everyone, myself included, is accountable for our actions, decisions and behaviour, so we take our work seriously.”

HOW TRANSCOM IS PARTNERING THE PUBLIC

The Public Transport Security Command’s (TransCom) Riders-On-Watch (ROW) initiative encourages commuters to help create a safer environment for all, by sharing latest crime information affecting the public transport system with ROW volunteers. Aside from keeping an eye out for suspicious activities, the SPF hopes that ROW volunteers will share the information with their family and friends helping to create a more informed community.

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In The Force

SPF’s Vigilante Corps: The end of an era

Post author By Ben
Post date January 12, 2023
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The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Policy) Jerry See (centre) and attended by key PNS officers, as well as VC (NS) officers who are now part of the Special Constabulary.

After 55 years, this scheme will be replaced by one that enables former VC officers to perform a wider policing role.

TEXT & PHOTOS: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

The ceremony to commemorate the transfer of Vigilante Corps (VC) officers of the Police National Service (PNS) to the Special Constabulary (SC) was held on 22 September 2022. The event marked the cessation of the VC National Service (NS) scheme, which was incorporated into the NS framework 55 years earlier with the passing of the VC Act.

TRANSITIONING TO A WIDER ROLE

The transition from VC (NS) to SC (NS) will allow Full-Time and Operationally Ready PNS VC officers to perform a greater variety of policing duties as full-fledged police officers. This includes critical duties that require police powers. As pointed out by Guest-of-Honour, Acting Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Policy) (DCP) Jerry See, the change “aims to make the National Service experience more enriching and fulfilling”.

DCP See acknowledged the vital role that VC (NS) officers have played in the SPF over the years and thanked all VC (NS) officers past and present, for their dedication and contribution in keeping Singapore safe. DCP See also thanked the families of VC (NS) officers for their support, while wishing the new SC (NS) officers all the best in their duties, as well as a more meaningful and enriching PNS experience.

A LONG, PROUD HISTORY OF SERVICE

The VC traces its roots to the 1940s when volunteer groups were formed to prevent and detect crime. In May 1964, the government set up a network of volunteers to help support the SPF guard key installations and protect crowded public areas during Konfrontasi. In 1967, the VC Act was passed, incorporating VC into the NS scheme. The VC then comprised of national servicemen and volunteers.

The main duties of the VC were to help the police force preserve public peace, the prevention and detection of crime, and the apprehension of offenders. The VC became affiliated with the SPF, with the VC (NS) serving their National Service obligations assisting the SPF. Enlistees under the VC (NS) scheme underwent a 14-week basic Police training programme and were then deployed to an SPF unit. Their uniform – a white shirt and navy-blue pants – signified their affiliation to the SPF. Since May 2019, all SPF enlistees have been conscripted as Special Constables.

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Vigilante Corps Heritage

Scan the QR code to watch a video on the history of the VC!

Featured In The Force

Tales from the line of duty

Post author By scott
Post date December 21, 2022
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LTA (NS) Mohamed Ibrahim Musa enjoys sharing his NS experiences with his son.

From a recruit to being emplaced as an NS officer, LTA (NS) Mohamed Ibrahim Musa, Deputy Company Commander, Public Shelter and Resilience Unit 13A shares his memorable moments of serving Singapore.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: SCDF

LTA (NS) Mohamed Ibrahim Musa, 36, enlisted for National Service in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) back in 2006. Since then, he has remained a proud and committed member of The Life Saving Force. As an NSman, LTA (NS) Ibrahim continued to display dedication towards National Service and his stellar performance secured him the National Service Excellence Award in 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021. In recognition of his exemplary performance, LTA (NS) Ibrahim was emplaced to the rank of Lieutenant (LTA) after he completed the Officer Conversion Course from 20 to 24 June 2022.

ENLISTMENT DAY

When LTA (NS) Ibrahim first received news of his enlistment into SCDF, he recalled feeling nervous yet excited. However, after he realised the importance of his role, his feelings of uncertainty subsided.

“During my recruit training, I learnt about my role as a fire and rescue officer and understood the importance of SCDF personnel to the community as part of the lifesaving force and that gave me the confidence to carry out my duties,” he says. “To this day, I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to help save the lives and properties of my fellow Singaporeans.”

WORKING AT THE FRONTLINE

LTA (NS) Ibrahim’s skills were put to good use for the first time when he responded to a road traffic accident with his teammates. “Unfortunately, it was a fatal accident and we had to extract the driver from the vehicle,” he recounts. “As it was my first time responding to a road traffic accident, I felt the added pressure of performing my duties in public. I could still remember how that felt.”

In such situations, LTA (NS) Ibrahim is extremely grateful he could rely on his team for assistance. “My Encik (Warrant Officer), who was an experienced specialist, came to my aid and provided the mental and physical support I needed during the incident. After the incident when we were back in the station, he continued to share with me his experiences and how I can be better prepared in carrying out my duties for future activations. I have learnt a lot of useful skills from my team while serving my full-time National Service with SCDF.”

GENERATIONS OF STRENGTH

As we celebrate 55 years of National Service (NS) this year, LTA (NS) Ibrahim expresses his joy in sharing the knowledge he acquired during his NS with another future NSF – his son. “My years of service have been meaningful beyond words. Every year, I look forward to reporting back for duty and have always made it a point to impart my knowledge and experiences onto those in my charge. After all, we are The Life Saving Force.”

In The Force

Running his way to a healthier lifestyle

Post author By scott
Post date December 5, 2022
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Mr Andriyan Awi has developed a passion for running and fitness after enlisting for National Service in the Singapore Police Force.

National Service has given Mr Andriyan bin Awi a new perspective and a new-found love for running, here’s how it happened.

TEXT: KEENAN PEREIRA

PHOTOS: ANDRIYAN AWI

As Friday afternoon rolls around, Mr Andriyan bin Awi has one thing on his mind: His weekly cheat meal. “I learnt about the concept of a cheat meal from my training days,” says the 22-year-old. He had enlisted as an overweight recruit last February, weighing in at 99kg, with a height that was just over 160cm. To help him shave the pounds, his trainers put him on a low-carb diet, which means that he had to give up favourites like rice and pasta for most of the week.

Fridays were an exception though, as they marked the start of his book-out period and Andriyan could enjoy the food he loved. His trainers didn’t restrict this, but only asked that he exercised too. “Over the weekend, we would have to run a kilometre for every month that we had enlisted,” recalls Andriyan, which was when he discovered his newfound interest in running.

A CAN-DO APPROACH TO STAYING TRIM

By the time his third month of enlistment rolled around, Andriyan said he looked forward to running his three kilometres over the weekend. It was a stellar improvement from what he could do at his heaviest. Back then, he would only be able to run 200m or so at a go, and even then, he would be incredibly out of breath. Andriyan’s “can-do” attitude has led to incredible results: Since joining the Force, he has shed more than 30kg and is now a trim 67kg, thanks to running and leading a healthier lifestyle.

Although he exercises self-restraint when it comes to food, he allows himself to enjoy a sinful meal every now and then. More often than not, his choice is a plate of steaming butter chicken from Al-Azhar, a famed Indian eatery along Upper Bukit Timah Road.

It’s a short hop from Clementi Police Station, where Andriyan currently serves as an administrative officer, ensuring that the police station’s operations run without a hitch. “It opens your eyes to how important everyone’s role is,” says Andriyan, referring to his present role. “It could be as simple as ensuring rations for those in-camp, but it’s crucial for mission success.”

HONING HIS PEOPLE SKILLS

He started this role earlier this year, after a previous stint at the facility’s guardhouse, where he helped register visitors and members of the public. He enjoyed this role immensely as well, as it allowed him to develop his people skills. He first honed these skills during a string of part-time jobs while studying for his Nitec in Aerospace Technology at Institute of Technical Education (ITE).

“I worked at the Singapore Tourism Board as an ambassador for the Singapore Rediscover Vouchers scheme, the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board as an usher, and Starbucks as a barista,” he says, adding that these experiences, together with his role at Clementi Police Station, have inspired him to pursue a new career path after his Operationally Ready Date next February.

“I would like to go into retail business management in the future,” he said.

STAYING HOME, POUNDING THE PAVEMENT

In his present vocation, Andriyan works office hours, which means he has his weekends to himself.

It explains why he’s content to stay at home for the most part, relaxing and spending time with his loved ones. It’s a far cry from his earlier weekends during National Service, when he made it a point to go out as much as he could. But there’s one thing that hasn’t changed: Come Saturday evening, you’ll find him pounding the pavement on one of his weekly runs.

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In The Force

A passion for life that never burns out

Post author By scott
Post date November 17, 2022
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SGT1 (V) Sam Martinez riding his motorcycle at Thung Bao Tong Fields in Chiang Mai, Thailand in February 2020.

Meet SGT1 (V) Sam Martinez, a Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit (CDAU) volunteer firefighter who has somehow cracked the code to a life well-lived.

TEXT: HTVN

PHOTOS: SGT1 (V) SAM MARTINEZ, NICOLE TAN

One can only dream of living as vibrantly as SGT1 (V) Sam Martinez, who is a volunteer Firefighter under the Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit (CDAU) in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Amid his busy career and volunteer role, SGT1 (V) Sam has somehow cracked the code to living life – he works and volunteers while enjoying several exciting hobbies – like freediving and motorcycle riding, to name a few.

FIRST DATE – FREEDIVING

A first encounter with freediving turned into love at first sight for SGT1 (V) Sam. He had been enchanted by the watersport when he first came across it on YouTube in 2019. Ever since then, his love story — like most others — truly began when he acted on it.

SGT1 (V) Sam said: “I saw a video of two freedivers in the turquoise waters. The elegance and serenity of it immediately struck a chord. My first introduction to the sport was in the pool at Our Tampines Hub. That first lesson had students do little more than breathing exercises and a static breath-hold.” When asked to elaborate, he explained: “You can think of it as floating face down while holding onto the pool edge breath-hold.” As he recounted the memory, his eyes lit up with joy and with an awestruck smile on his face, he continued: “And… I loved it.”

The pandemic had nothing on him: it may have forced him to pause, but he emerged with a certificate for the watersport in Yucatan, Mexico early this year!

RIDING WITHOUT A CARE IN THE WORLD

SGT1 (V) Sam is also a motorcycle rider. His love for motorcycling stemmed from the sport’s carefree nature. He experienced this freedom himself when he rode his motorcycle in northern Thailand and the region’s popular Mae Hong Son loop in February 2020.

When asked what he liked best about motorcycling, he elaborates: “There is something incredibly liberating about riding up and down twisting mountain roads without a care in the world. Passing through villages, stopping by roadside stalls on chilly mornings for a steaming cup of coffee. Good memories, guaranteed!”

TOUCHING HEARTS

SGT1 (V) Sam’s athletic skills aren’t just for play, but to help others too. He receives training for Firefighting, Search and Rescue, Hazmat and First Aid from the CDAU Firefighting and Rescue Vocation. While excelling in just about anything he sets his mind to, SGT1 (V) Sam remains grounded and humble.

For him, the openness and professionalism of the Central Fire Station frontliners made his work there memorable. He appreciates their patience and dedication in explaining routine procedures and the use of equipment. As SGT1 (V) Sam aptly sums up: “The people make all the difference.”

He also touches people’s hearts through his volunteer work. When asked if he has any words of encouragement for interested parties to volunteer for HTVN, SGT1 (V) Sam says: “I’ll borrow the slogan from a well-known sports brand for this one — Just Do It! Life is good, so let’s give something back to society.”

Find out more how you can make a difference in your community. Volunteer with the Home Team Volunteer Network today!

In The Force

Developing a firm foundation in rescue work

Post author By scott
Post date October 31, 2022
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Lieutenant (LTA) Wang Mingkang says that the knowledge he has gained in the SCDF is critical, as rescue engineers like him must ensure the safety of rescuers in urban disaster areas.

Meet Lieutenant (LTA) Wang Mingkang, a Rescue Engineer for the 41 Rescue Unit in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), whose role is to reduce the risks of potential structural failures.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: SCDF

As a Rescue Engineer, LTA Mingkang understands the anatomy of buildings and structures, as well as their typical collapse patterns and structural behaviours under adverse loading.

The 28-year-old’s expertise enables him to develop mitigation plans, as well as monitor and assess buildings’ structural support to ensure their stability.

ALWAYS LEARNING

To dive deeper into his role, LTA Mingkang attended a one-week Rescue Engineer Course and immersed himself in the lesson on Urban Search and Rescue (USAR). Deployed to a simulated disaster area with collapsed structures, he learnt the basics of building shores to ensure the safety of rescuers while saving casualties.

“Rescue engineers have a heavy responsibility to ensure a safe environment before giving the green approval to conduct search and rescue in a structure that is prone to collapse further,” he shared.

The course also equipped rescuers with knowledge on how to effectively liaise with other rescue teams from different countries, through the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG)’s communication systems.

ABOVE AND BEYOND HIS DUTY TO SERVE

Besides carrying out the role of a Rescue Engineer in SCDF, LTA Mingkang also works as a Research Engineer at the National University of Singapore (NUS), where he conducts research relating to structural collapse using experiments and numerical simulations.

LTA Mingkang is a firm believer in lifelong learning as seen from his Civil Engineering PhD candidature at NUS. He provides support in a research collaboration project between NUS’ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and HTX’s Protective Security and Safety Centre of Expertise, involving the design and assessment of precast concrete-framed structures against disproportionate collapse.

FULL SUPPORT

The Class 3 Vertical Laced Post Shore is one of the strongest shoring systems that provides temporary support in stabilising collapsed structures and can carry up to a maximum load of 36,000 kilograms. To ensure the safety of rescuers during search-and-rescue operations involving collapsed structures, the Class 3 Vertical Laced Post Shore must be accurately and quickly assembled – which LTA Mingkang and his team of rescuers are able to do so within half an hour.

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