English - Singapore Civil Defence Force

Community Emergency
Preparedness Programme
Course notes
2012/01

About the Community Emergency Preparedness
Programme (CEPP)
The CEPP is a free training programme aimed at enhancing the community’s
preparedness for emergencies ranging from medical emergencies and fires
to terrorism.
Comprising five modules, the CEPP is conducted at the four HQ Civil
Defence Divisions to equip participants with basic skills and knowledge in
topics such as fire safety, first aid, CPR, peacetime emergencies and dealing
with threats of terrorism. These skills will help you and your family deal with
emergencies and put you in good stead when faced with a life and death
situation.
The CEPP is also a core component of the Civil Defence (CD) Ready Homes
Programme, which is a joint initiative between SCDF, the National Fire and
Civil Emergency Preparedness Council and People’s Association. The CD
Ready Homes programme aims to encourage residents to take ownership
and learn Civil Defence skills. Through a self-validation checklist, residents
are encouraged to assess their household’s level of emergency preparedness.
The checklist, printed in English, Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil, is
available for collection at all fire stations, fire posts, HQ CD Divisions and
Emergency Preparedness Days.
Visit www.scdf.gov.sg for enrolment details and more information on the
CEPP and CD Ready Homes programme.
Remember, READINESS IS OUR ONLY PROTECTION.
Copyright ©2012 Singapore Civil Defence Force. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS
Module 1 ................................................................................................ 3
Basic First Aid
Module 2 ................................................................................................ 17
One-man CPR and AED
Module 3 ................................................................................................ 35
Fire Safety and Casualty Evacuation
Module 4 ................................................................................................ 53
Emergency Procedures
Module 5 ................................................................................................ 81
Terrorism
Useful Telephone Numbers ................................................................. 107
Module Divider page 1
Basic First Aid
3
Module 1

Divider back page
CoNTeNTs Page
First aid ............................................................................................ 7
Wounds ............................................................................................ 8
Bleeding ........................................................................................... 10
Fractures .......................................................................................... 10
Immobilisation .................................................................................. 11
Sprains ............................................................................................. 13
Burns and scalds .............................................................................. 14
Fits .................................................................................................... 15
Stroke ............................................................................................... 16
4 5

FIRST AID
What is First aid?
First Aid is the first treatment given to a casualty with the objective of preserving life
and preventing his condition from becoming worse until proper medical treatment is
given.
Contents of a First aid Kit
Every home should have a First Aid kit, which usually contains the following items.
You may want to include other first aid items that serve your household's needs.
• Equipment
6 7
Disposable gloves to protect the rescuer from infection transmitted via
blood and other bodily fluids
Tweezers to pull out stings and other small foreign objects embedded in
the skin/wounds
Scissors to cut dressing, bandages and clothes
Resuscitation face shield to serve as a protective layer during CPR
Thermometer to measure human body temperature
• Dressings
First aid dressing to cover wounds
Sterile eye dressing to cover eye injuries
Adhesive plasters to cover superficial wounds
Sterile gauze pad to clean or cover wounds
• Bandages
Triangular bandages to use in immobilisation of fractures and as a
secondary dressing
Crepe bandages to use as a secondary dressing
Adhesive tape to tape the ends of bandages

WOUNDS
Wounds are injuries to the skin and the soft tissues beneath it.
Types of wounds
a. Contusion
b. Abrasion
c. Incision
d. Punctured wound
e. Laceration
f. Amputation
g. Avulsion
Treatment for wounds
a. Clean the wound.
b. Cover the wound with sterile/clean dressing.
c. Immobilise the injured part if necessary.
d. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Principles of dressing
a. Always face the casualty to monitor his level of consciousness.
b. Reassure the casualty.
c. Expose the wound.
d. Open the first aid dressing as close to the wound as possible.
e. Do not touch the sterile pad.
f. Do not let the bandage tail drop and touch the ground.
g. The injured area must be completely covered.
h. If possible, tie the knot on the pad for additional pressure.
Dressing of wounds using triangular bandages
The triangular bandage is usually used to:
a. Retain dressing and splints in position and to immobilise fractures.
b. Support an injured limb and reduce or prevent swelling.
c. Control bleeding as a secondary bandage.
The longest edge of the triangular bandage is referred to as the “base” and the two
shorter edges as “sides”. The corner opposite the base is called the “apex” and the
remaining two corners are called the “ends”.
To use a triangular bandage as a broad bandage, bring the apex down to the centre
of the base and fold the bandage again in the same direction. Fold once more in the
same direction to get a narrow bandage.
Broad Bandage
Narrow Bandage
To secure the ends of a bandage, a reef knot must be tied. The knot must be tied
where it will not cause discomfort and chafe the skin.
8 9
Apex
Side Side
End End
Base

BLEEDING
Bleeding is the loss of blood as a result of damage to blood vessels.
Pretreatment precautions
• Wear protective gloves or place a barrier between you and the person’s blood
• Wash hands with soap and water after providing care
Treatment for bleeding wounds
a. Check if there are any foreign objects (e.g. glass fragments) in the wound.
b. If there are no foreign objects in the wound:
i. Elevate the injured part if possible.
ii. Cover the wound with sterile/clean dressing and apply direct pressure.
iii. Tie a firm bandage.
iv. Immobilise the injured part if necessary.
v. Seek medical attention if necessary.
If there are any foreign objects in the wound, do not press on the object. To avoid
applying direct pressure on the object, build up padding around the wound before
bandaging.
FRACTURES
Fractures are breaks or cracks in the bones.
Main types of fractures
• Closed – covering skin is intact
• Open – covering skin is torn
Causes of fractures
Closed
Open
• Direct force (e.g. a kick, hit by a car bumper)
• Indirect force (e.g. a twist of the leg, falling on an outstretched limb)
signs of fractures
• Pain and tenderness
• Deformity in the area affected
• Loss of function
• Swelling and sometimes bruising
• Open wound (for open fractures)
Treatment for fractures
a. Calm the casualty down.
b. Treat bleeding wounds, if any. For open fractures, stop the bleeding and cover
exposed bone ends.
c. Rest, support and immobilise injured part in a position most comfortable for the
casualty.
d. If the casualty has a dislocated or fractured upper or lower limb, refer to the
following IMMOBILISATION section.
e. Seek medical attention or dial 995 for an ambulance.
IMMOBILISATION
Immobilisation of upper limb injury
Applicable for dislocation or fracture involving the:
• Shoulder
• Upper arm
• Forearm
• Wrist
Procedure
a. Sit casualty down and support the injured arm
horizontally.
b. Apply open arm sling as shown.
10 11

Immobilisation of lower limb injury
Applicable for dislocation or fracture involving the hip, pelvis and lower limbs.
Procedure
a. Straighten the injured leg as much as possible.
b. Bring the uninjured leg (which acts as a splint) to the injured leg.
c. Slide bandages under both legs as shown.
d. Insert padding between the knees and ankles.
e. Bandage the legs together as shown and knot on the side of the uninjured leg.
SPRAINS
Sprains occur at joints and involve the ligaments, the most common being sprained
ankles. A strain, however, is an injury to the muscles and tendons, especially when
they are stretched.
Treat sprains and strains using R.I.C.e.
Rest the sprained joint Ice or apply a cold com- Compress the sprained
press to the sprain joint using a bandage or
soft padding
elevate the sprained joint
12 13

BURNS AND SCALDS
Burns and scalds are damages to the body tissues caused by heat, chemicals,
electricity or radiation. The damages may be extensive or superficial.
Causes of burns and scalds
• Presence of heat: naked flame, hot iron, boiling water, hot oil
• Absence of heat: liquid nitrogen
• Chemicals: Acids, alkalis
• Electrical: electricity, lightning
• Radiation: sun rays
Depth of burn
1st Degree
Superficial
extent of burn
2nd Degree
Partial Thickness
3rd Degree
Full Thickness
Potentially serious or critical burns are highly dependent on the age group as well as
the depth of burns. They include:
• Partial-thickness (2 nd degree) burns greater than 20% of Body Surface Area
(BSA)
• Full-thickness (3 rd degree) burns greater than 10% of BSA
• All burns involving the face, eyes, ears, hands, feet or genitalia
• All burns involving children and elderly
Treatment for burns and scalds
a. Stop the burning process.
b. For chemical burns, wash off the chemicals.
c. Use the four Cs:
Note
14 15
Cool the injured part under cold running water or immerse it in cold water for
about 10 minutes.
Gently remove any Constrictions such as a bracelet, ring, watch or constricting
clothing from the injured area before it starts to swell.
Cover the injured area to prevent infection. Use clean, preferably sterile, nonadherent
material (e.g. handkerchief, dressing etc.).
Consult the doctor or convey to hospital.
• DO NOT apply toothpaste, lotion, ointment or fat to the injured area
• DO NOT cover the injured area with cotton wool
• DO NOT break any blisters or remove anything that is sticking to the affected
areas
FITS
Fits are episodes of uncontrolled movements of the body.
Common causes of fits
• Epilepsy
• Head injury
• High fever in infants
signs of fits
• Clenching of teeth and rolling of eyes
• Casualty falls to the ground
• Uncontrolled movements occur (e.g. jerking of limbs)
• Incontinence may occur
• Muscular spasms or convulsive movements eventually stop and casualty
becomes drowsy or even unconscious

When someone is experiencing an episode of fits
• Keep sharp and dangerous objects away from casualty
• Do not restrict his movements
• Do not place anything into his mouth as it will cause injury
• Treat any injuries once the fits are over
• Send the casualty for medical attention
STROKE
A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is disrupted, and it may lead to longterm
disability in the casualty. It is therefore important to seek medical help as soon
as possible when someone collapses from stroke.
signs of stroke
• Sudden numbness/weakness of the face, arm or leg. It usually happens to one
side of the body
• Sudden confusion, having trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden blurring of vision
• Sudden loss of balance and coordination, dizziness and having trouble walking
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If you suspect someone to be suffering from stroke, dial 995 immediately for an
ambulance.
Module 2
One-man CPR and AED
16 17
Module 2

CoNTeNTs Page
Sudden Cardiac Arrest .................................................................... 21
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) procedures ........................ 24
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) procedures ......................... 31
Choking ............................................................................................ 32
18 19

SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST
It is a condition where the casualty’s heart stops beating owing to a heart attack.
statistics
In Singapore, heart disease is the second most common cause of death. About
2,400 persons develop an acute heart attack every year. In addition, close to 1,400
persons suffer from sudden cardiac arrest in the out-of-hospital environment. The
total survival rate for pre-hospital collapses is about 2.6% 1 .
Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
• Heart attack
• Choking
• Drowning
• Stroke
• Drug overdose
• Suffocation
• Smoke inhalation
• Electrocution
• Severe allergic reactions
• Severe trauma
1 Statistics obtained from various sources as on Dec 2010.
20 21

The chain of survival
The ‘Chain of Survival’ is an approach for treating casualties with cardiac arrest. A
weak or missing link in the ‘Chain of Survival’ will lead to a poor chance of survival.
Early Access Early CPR Early Defibrillation Early ACLS
• The first link: early access
Early access encompasses the events initiated after the casualty’s collapse until
the arrival of the ambulance crew. Early recognition of signs of sudden cardiac
arrest and the prompt activation of ambulance via 995 is vital. This also involves
giving way to ambulances on the road and giving ambulance crew priority when
they use elevators, stairs and corridors to reach casualties.
• The second link: early CPR
The time interval between the activation of the ambulance service and the arrival
of the ambulance crew is typically longer than five minutes. Brain cells can live
without oxygen for 4-6 minutes before they begin to die, and any damage to
the brain after 10 minutes cannot be repaired. In situations of cardiac arrest,
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is the only way to ensure oxygen and
blood are supplied to the brain and vital organs. If CPR is performed promptly
and correctly, heart function may be restored and circulation maintained until
institution of other life support measures such as the use of Automated External
Defibrillators (AED).
• The third link: early defibrillation
Studies have shown that early defibrillation is most likely to improve the survival
rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. The most common initial rhythm
in cardiac arrest is the Ventricular Fibrillation (VF). This can progress to death
if not treated and the death rate increases by 10% for every minute without
defibrillation. The following shows a VF rhythm:
22 23
As defibrillation works best in the first few minutes after the onset of cardiac
arrest, many organisations have installed an AED within their premises. An AED
is a device that interprets heart rhythms, advises the operator whether a shock
is needed and delivers electrical shock to the heart upon activation.
Although there are many advantages to using the AED, there are contraindications
to its usage. The AED cannot be used if the casualty is:
Responsive or has pulse and/or breathing
An infant below one year old
Obviously dead
For children aged between one to eight years or weigh less than 25 kg,
paediatric defibrillation pads (which have reduced energy output) should be
used. However, if there are no such pads, adult defibrillation pads should be
considered.
Safety is the most important factor for the AED operator. It is vital that nobody
comes into contact with a casualty during analysis and defibrillation, as that
will interfere with the accuracy of the machine’s reading during analysis and
may cause the electric current to be passed to the person in contact with the
casualty.
The AED should also not be used in the presence of:
Water
Metal
Flammable gas
Explosive environment
• The fourth link: early advanced Care Life support (aCLs)
Early ACLS is frequently carried out in hospitals and consist of advanced airway
management, ventilation support, administration of medication and the control
of arrhythmias.

CARDIO-PULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) PROCEDURES
Determine unresponsiveness
Quickly assess and determine whether the person is responsive. The rescuer should
tap the casualty on his shoulders and shout, “Hello? Hello? Are you ok?”
“Hello! Hello!
Are You ok?”
Avoid violent shaking of the casualty as this might result in injury. Also avoid
unnecessary movements of his neck to prevent injuries to the head and neck.
If the casualty does not respond, he is likely to be unconscious. This may be due to:
• An airway that is blocked by food, secretions or his tongue which has fallen
backwards
• Breathing that has stopped
• A heart that has stopped beating, usually due to a heart attack
activate emergency ambulance service (eas)
If the casualty does not respond, promptly appoint someone to dial the emergency
ambulance number 995. Most people with sudden cardiac arrest will require
defibrillation. Therefore, send someone to get the AED.
Provide the person calling for an ambulance with the following information:
a. Location of the casualty
b. Telephone number you are calling from
c. What happened, e.g. someone is having a heart attack or is unconscious
d. The number of persons who need help
The caller should only hang up only after being instructed to do so by the ambulance
dispatcher.
Positioning of casualty
For CPR to be effective, the casualty must be lying flat on his back on a firm flat
surface. Roll the casualty over onto his back if he is lying face down or on his side.
Take care that the head, neck and body are supported and turned simultaneously
during repositioning.
24 25

opening of airway
Perform a head tilt-chin lift manoeuvre to open the airway if there is no evidence of
head and neck injuries. In the unresponsive state, muscle tone is impaired resulting
in the tongue falling backward and obstructing the airway. As the tongue is attached
to the lower jaw, moving the lower jaw forward will lift the tongue away from the back
of the throat and open the airway.
To perform a head tilt-chin lift manoeuvre:
a. Place one hand on the casualty’s forehead and apply firm backward pressure
with your palm to tilt the head back.
b. Place the fingers of your other hand under the bony part of the lower jaw to lift
the jaw forward.
Note
Tongue
• Do not press deeply into the soft tissues under the chin as this might obstruct
the airway
• Do not use your thumb to lift the chin
• If head or neck injury is suspected, perform a jaw thrust or a gentle chin lift
Breathing
To assess for spontaneous breathing:
Tongue
Block Airway Open Airway
a. Place your ear over the casualty’s mouth and nose while maintaining an open
airway.
b. Assess for breathing by:
• Looking for the chest rise and fall
• Listening for air escaping during exhalation
• Feeling for the flow of air from the mouth and nose
c. If any of the above is present, the casualty is still breathing.
d. If all of the signs of breathing are absent, it can be presumed that the victim is
not breathing and is in cardiac arrest.
e. It should not take more than 10 seconds to complete the breathing assessment.
If you are still not sure by this time, presume the casualty is in cardiac arrest.
f. The casualty now requires CPR, starting with chest compressions.
Chest compressions
Chest compressions consist of serial, rhythmic applications of pressure over the
lower half of the sternum (breastbone). Locating the correct hand position for chest
compressions should be done quickly and not take more than 2 to 3 seconds.
• Locate landmark
26 27
a. Maintain head tilt. Run your middle finger from the lower margin of the
casualty’s rib cage on the near side till you reach the notch in the centre.
Place your index finger next to your middle finger.
Rib margin
Find the point where the ribs
meet with your finger

. Place the heel of the other hand next to the index finger.
Place the heel of
your hand on the
breastbone to meet
the fingers
c. Release the two fingers and place the heel of that hand on top of the hand
on the lower half of the breastbone. Interlace the fingers of both hands and
maintain the position.
d. Straighten both elbows and lock them into position.
e. Position your shoulder directly over the casualty’s chest.
f. Count loudly as you compress:
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 5 and
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 10 and
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 15
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 20
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 25
1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 30
Press straight down
onto the heels of
your hands
Keep the finger clear of the
chest so that pressure is not
applied over ribs
28 29
g. After performing 30 compressions, you now need to provide oxygen to the
casualty via mouth-to-mouth ventilation.
Mouth-to-mouth ventilation
a. Maintain a head tilt-chin lift position to open the airway.
b. Pinch the casualty’s nose with your thumb and index finger to prevent air from
escaping.
c. Seal your lips around the casualty’s mouth.
d. Give 2 short breaths quickly, one after the other. Observe the chest rise with
each breath.
e. Release the nostrils after each breath. The duration for each breath is 1 second
and the ventilation volume should be between 400ml to 600ml.
30 chest compressions with 2 mouth-to-mouth ventilations
• The best form of CPR that a bystander can give is a combination of 30 chest
compressions alternating with 2 mouth-to-mouth ventilations
• This provides the best chance for survival. If for any reason a rescuer is unable
to give mouth-to-mouth breathing, he should at least continue with good quality
chest compressions. This would be better than no CPR at all
• Continue CPR i.e. repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 ventilations until
the ambulance crew/AED arrives or casualty shows signs of life. Afterwhich,
recheck casualty’s breathing, perform CPR and use AED when it arrives if
necessary
• If two rescuers are present, we recommend that one focuses on the chest
compressions, counting loudly in the process. The other rescuer focuses on
giving mouth-to-mouth breathing
• If one of the rescuers is tired, both rescuers could quickly switch places and
continue CPR

guidelines for proper compression techniques
• To keep the main force of compression on the breastbone, the long axis of the
heel of the rescuer’s hand should be placed on the long axis of the casualty’s
breastbone. The fingers should also be kept off the chest
• To achieve maximum pressure with the least effort, your weight should be
supported by your arms and your body should be over the casualty’s body. The
weight of your body will provide the required force to depress the breastbone.
Each compression must involve a hard push
• To allow blood to flow into the heart, the chest compression pressure must be
released completely to allow the chest to return to its normal position after each
compression
• Compress vertically at least 5cm downwards
• Do not lift the hands from the chest or change position as correct hand position
may be lost
• Bouncing compressions, jerky movements, improper hand position and leaning
on the chest can decrease the effectiveness of resuscitation and are more likely
to cause injuries
• Recommended chest compression rate should be at least 100 per minute
Note:
The updated CPR procedures are in accordance with the guidelines issued by the
National Resuscitation Council in March 2011.
AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR (AED)
PROCEDURES
Preparing the casualty for aeD
Before applying the defibrillation pads onto the casualty:
a. Expose the casualty’s chest adequately.
b. If the casualty is wearing jewellery or any accessories that is resting on his
chest, remove it or push it aside to expose the site for the defibrillation pads.
c. Look for and remove any patches (e.g. medicated patch) from the casualty’s
chest if these patches interfere with the placement of the defibrillation pads.
d. Shave excessive hair from the casualty’s chest where the defibrillation pads are
going to be placed to improve adhesion.
e. Clean and dry perspiration off the chest as the moisture can reduce the contact
of the defibrillation pads to the chest.
f. If there are any pacemakers, place the defibrillation pads a space of four fingers
wide away from them. In the meantime, ensure that good quality CPR is in
progress.
applying the defibrillation pads
After ensuring that there are no contraindications and that the casualty is prepared,
the AED operator may proceed with the application of the defibrillation pads while
CPR is in progress. Do not interrupt the chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth
ventilations.
Continue with CPR while the pads are being applied.
To apply the defibrillation pads:
a. Check the expiry date on the packet.
b. Remove pads from the packet and peel off the protective
backing.
c. Place one pad vertically on the right breastbone just below
the collarbone.
d. Place the other pad horizontally, one palm below the left
armpit, towards the middle of the chest region. Refer to the
illustration for the placement of defibrillation pads.
e. Make sure the pads are properly pasted with no air pockets.
f. Turn on the AED device.
g. Follow the AED’s voice prompted instructions and perform CPR as required
until the casualty shows signs of life or the ambulance crew arrives.
30 31

once the casualty shows signs of life
a. Check for breathing.
b. If the casualty is not breathing, continue CPR and AED.
c. If the casualty is breathing, monitor his breathing constantly until the ambulance
crew arrives.
CHOKING
Choking or complete airway obstruction is an emergency that can result in death
within minutes if not treated immediately.
signs of choking
A choking person will display the Universal Sign of
Distress and will be unable to speak, breathe and
cough.
Treatment for choking
Perform the heimlich manoeuvre or chest thrusts to expel the foreign object that is
obstructing the airway. If the casualty falls unconscious, support and lay the casualty
down. Perform chest compressions for unconscious choking.
• Heimlich manoeuvre (for conscious choking)
Universal Sign
of Distress
a. Stand behind the casualty.
b. Request casualty to stand with his feet shoulder-width apart.
c. Place one leg in between the casualty’s legs.
d. Locate the casualty’s navel using the ring finger.
e. Place 2 fingers above the navel.
f. With the other hand, tuck your thumb into your palm and curl your fingers
into a fist.
g. Position the fist against the abdomen above the fingers.
h. Bend the casualty forward.
i. Release the three fingers at the navel and cover the fist with this hand.
j. Give 5 thrusts in a 45 degrees inwards-upwards motion.
k. Look out for any foreign objects that fall out from the casualty’s mouth.
l. If nothing emerges from the casualty’s mouth, continue to give abdominal
thrusts in sets of 5 (check for foreign objects that fall out from the casualty’s
mouth after each set) until the foreign object is expelled or the casualty falls
unconscious, whichever is earlier.
m. If the casualty falls unconscious, support and lay the casualty down.
n. Proceed to perform chest compressions for unconscious choking.
• Chest thrusts (for conscious choking)
32 33
Chest thrusts may be used on obese or pregnant casualties as an alternative to
the Heimlich Manoeuvre.
a. Stand behind the casualty.
b. Request casualty to stand with his feet shoulder-width apart.
c. Place one leg in between the casualty’s legs.
d. Slide both arms under the casualty’s armpits to encircle the chest.
e. With one hand, tuck your thumb into your palm and curl your fingers into a
fist.
f. Position your fist against the centre of the breastbone.
g. Cover your fist with the other hand.
h. Give 5 thrusts in an inward motion.
i. Look out for any foreign objects that fall out from the casualty’s mouth.
j. If nothing emerges from the casualty’s mouth, continue to give chest
thrusts in sets of 5 (check for foreign objects that fall out from the casualty’s
mouth after each set) until the foreign object is expelled or the casualty falls
unconscious, whichever is earlier.
k. If the casualty falls unconscious, support and lay the casualty down.
l. Proceed to perform chest compressions for unconscious choking.
• Chest compressions for unconscious choking (casualty falls
unconscious from conscious choking)
a. Support and position the victim on his back on a firm flat surface.
b. Rescuer should shout for help, promptly appoint someone to dial 995 for
an ambulance and another person to get the AED.
c. Start 30 chest compressions (pg 27).
d. Perform head tilt-chin lift manoeuvre to open the airway.
e. Pull down the chin to check for any foreign objects in the mouth.
f. Remove any visible objects with a hooked index finger of your other hand.
g. Check for normal breathing.
h. If breathing is present, monitor his breathing constantly until ambulance
arrives.
i. If breathing is absent, attempt one mouth-to-mouth ventilation (pg 29).
j. If chest does not rise, re-position with the head tilt-chin lift procedure.
k. Attempt second mouth-to-mouth ventilation. If chest still does not rise, the
casualty’s airway is still choked.

l. Repeat from step c onwards until you are able to give 2 successful mouthto-mouth
ventilations with chest rise, ambulance crew arrives or casualty
shows signs of life.
m. Once you can give 2 successful mouth-to-mouth ventilations with chest
rise or casualty shows signs of life, check his breathing. If he is breathing,
monitor his breathing constantly until the ambulance arrives. If casualty is
not breathing, perform CPR and use the AED when it arrives.
Module 3
Fire Safety and Casualty Evacuation
34 35
Module 3

CoNTeNTs Page
Triangle of combustion ..................................................................... 39
Methods of extinguishing fires ......................................................... 39
Classification of fires ........................................................................ 41
Types of fire extinguishers ................................................................ 41
Procedure for operating an extinguisher .......................................... 43
Major causes of fire .......................................................................... 43
Household fire safety checklist ........................................................ 44
Smoke detector ................................................................................ 45
If you discover a fire ......................................................................... 46
If you are trapped in a fire ................................................................ 48
If your clothes catch fire ................................................................... 48
Casualty evacuation ......................................................................... 48
Insurance .......................................................................................... 52
36 37

TRIANGLE OF COMBUSTION
Fire is a chemical reaction between a substance and oxygen, through which heat is
evolved. The three core ingredients for a fire to start are fuel, oxygen and heat/ignition
sources.
Most big fires originate from small outbreaks. It is important that fires are extinguished
in their incipient stages so that serious damages can be minimised.
Fire prevention is extremely important as your home has everything a fire needs! For
example:
• Fuel – Combustible materials such as newspapers, clothing, furniture and
flammable liquids such as cooking oil and wine
• Oxygen – Oxygen in the air
• Heat/ignition sources – Flame, spark, hot metal or hot electrical appliances
METHODS OF EXTINGUISHING FIRES
• Cooling – To lower temperature or limit heat, the following items can be used:
Water hose
Water bucket
Water extinguisher
38 39
HeaT
FIRe
oXYgeN
FUeL

• smothering – To limit or remove oxygen near the fire, the following items can
be used:
Sand
Wet blanket
Beater
Dry powder or carbon dioxide extinguisher
• starvation – To limit fuel for the fire, the fuel that is supporting the fire must be
removed
CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES
Class Material Extinguishing Means
40 41
A
B
C
D
Fire involving the burning of ordinary
combustible materials e.g. wood,
paper, cloth, plastics and rubber.
Fire involving flammable liquids e.g.
petrol, solvents, oils, paints, thinner
and flammable gases e.g. LPG
Fire involving live electrical equipment
e.g. electrical mains, transformers and
electrical appliances.
Fire involving combustible metals
e.g. potassium, magnesium, titanium,
sodium, lithium and zirconium
TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
• Water extinguisher
safety pin
pressure
gauge
flexible
tube
nozzle
Carbon dioxide, water and dry
powder
Carbon dioxide, dry powder
and foam
Carbon dioxide, dry powder
Dry powder
discharge
lever
carrying
handle
cylinder
base

• Carbon dioxide extinguisher
safety pin
discharge
tube
discharge
horn
• Dry powder extinguisher
safety pin
pressure
gauge
flexible
tube
nozzle
base
discharge
lever
carrying
handle
cylinder
base
discharge
lever
carrying
handle
cylinder
PROCEDURE FOR OPERATING AN EXTINGUISHER
42 43
Note
• Do not use water extinguisher for flammable liquid fires and electrical fires
• For electrical fires, switch off the electrical supply before extinguishing the fire
• If the cookware is on fire, shut off the gas supply without endangering yourself
and smother the fire by using a thick wet cloth to cover the cookware. Do not
pour water into it as the fire will spread
MAJOR CAUSES OF FIRE
• Careless disposal of matches or cigarette butts
• Overloading of electrical outlets
• Children playing with matches or lighters
• Unattended cooking
• Discarded items along corridor, lift lobby, staircase or void deck

HOUSEHOLD FIRE SAFETY CHECKLIST Yes No
Preparing
yourself and
your family
against fire
Electrical
wiring and
components
Flammable
materials and
heat sources
Is the common corridor outside the house unobstructed by
discarded items (e.g. mattresses and furniture)?
Does your house have an approved dry powder fire extinguisher?
Does everyone in your house know what number to dial in case of
fire or other emergencies?
Have you or any of your family members attended the Community
Emergency Preparedness Programme organised by the SCDF?
Have you or your family members attended any of the Emergency
Preparedness Days at the heartlands?
Do all electrical plugs have SAFETY Mark?
Are all electrical adapters safely loaded with desirable number of
plugs and within allowable electrical ratings?
Are all equipment and appliances switched off when not in use?
Are all wires in the house in good condition? (i.e. without broken
insulation and exposed wiring)
Are all wires laid in the open with none running under rugs, over
heat sources and under doors?
Are the television sets placed more than 50cm away from
combustible materials?
Are candles and oil lamps placed on a stable surface with measures
taken to prevent them from being knocked over easily?
Are matches, lighters and sparklers kept away from heat sources
and children?
Are flammable liquids (e.g. cooking oil and wine) and combustible
materials kept far away from heat sources such as the stove, heat
appliances, lit joss sticks and candles?
Are cooking appliances (e.g. cooker hood) and the stove clean, free
from grease and in good working condition?
Are flammable liquids kept in approved containers which are clearly
labelled and stored in ways such that they cannot be knocked over
easily?
Are your windows kept open for ventilation when using LPG
(Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinder to cook?
Did you ensure your LPG dealer conduct a 5-point check on your
LPG system at least once a year?
SMOKE DETECTOR
Definition
It is a device to detect smoke and sound an alarm automatically. It consists of 2 parts:
• A sensor to detect smoke
• An electric horn to alert people of a fire nearby
The most common type of smoke detector is the photoelectric detector.
Reasons for using smoke detector
• Smoke is the main cause of death in many fatal fires. More people died from
smoke inhalation than from fire burns
• Smoke contains many toxic gases and particles. It affects visibility, impairs
judgement and causes disorientation, asphyxiation and eventually death
• A small quantity of carbon monoxide, one of the by-products of combustion, is
sufficient to kill a person in his sleep
• Installing smoke detectors will give occupants early warning of a fire before the
smoke becomes thick, rendering escape difficult
Installation of smoke detector
• It is recommended that you consult a professional installer before installing the
smoke detectors
Maintenance of smoke detector
• Test your detector regularly. Check the instruction manual for the recommended
frequency
• Use a soft brush and vacuum all slots in the detector every month. Vacuum
more often if dust, dirt and grease accumulate easily
• Change the batteries every year or when the detector beeps every few minutes,
whichever occurs first
44 45

IF YOU DISCOVER A FIRE
a. Raise the alarm
i. Alert others by shouting.
ii. Activate the fire alarm by breaking the glass of the nearest manual call
point.
iii. Call 995 for SCDF at the earliest opportunity.
b. Tackle the fire
i. If it is an incipient fire or small fire, you can extinguish it by using the fire
extinguisher or the fire hose reel. Only do so without endangering yourself
or others.
ii. Operating the hose reel
1. Turn on the hose reel valve (refer to image below) before running out
the hose.
2. Run the hose.
3. Turn on the nozzle.
4. Direct the water stream at the base of the fire.
iii. If the fire is beyond control, close the door of the room on fire and evacuate
immediately.
c. evacuation
46 47
i. Leave the building immediately.
ii. Do not use the lift.
iii. Use a wet cloth, if possible, to cover your mouth and nose to avoid inhaling
the smoke.
iv. Take shallow breaths, keep close to the floor and crawl to escape.
v. Use the back of your hand to feel the lower, middle and upper parts of
any closed doors while evacuating. If the door is hot, look for other exits.
Otherwise, open it slowly.
vi. Do not return to the building unless instructed by authorities.

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED IN A FIRE
• Do not panic
• Enter a safe room
• Shut the door behind you and cover the gap beneath the door using wet towels
• Shout for help to alert passers-by
• Do not jump out of the building
IF YOUR CLOTHES CATCH FIRE
Follow the steps below:
a. Stop running and remain calm.
b. Drop to the floor immediately.
c. Roll over from side to side while covering your face with your hands to smother
the flames.
If you notice someone else’s clothes are on fire, quickly make the casualty lie down
on the floor, cover him with a blanket and gently pat him until the fire is extinguished.
CASUALTY EVACUATION
The evacuation of casualties depends on the following factors:
• Location of the casualty
• Condition of the casualty
• Type of injury
• Size and weight of the casualty
• Number of rescuers
• Availability of rescue equipment
stretcher Bearers Team (4-man team)
• Step-by-step procedure
a. 3 2
No. 4 man takes up position opposite the other 3
1 4
bearers.
b. 3 4 At a given command, all bearers will lift the
casualty.
c. 2 1
Then, they will support him on their knees.
d. Leaving the 3 bearers to support the casualty,
4
the no. 4 man will bring the stretcher and place
it below the casualty. At a given command, the
casualty is slowly lowered onto the stretcher.
e. 3 4 2 1
At a given command, the bearers will move their
left leg first.
The stretcher bearers should bear in the mind the following points:
• Keep the stretcher level with the ground
• Carry the casualty with his feet facing the direction of move
• Bring the stretcher to the casualty and not the other way round
• When moving up slope/stairs, the direction of move should be changed such
that the casualty’s head is above his legs
48 49
3
2 1
3 2 1
4

Improvised stretchers
If there are no stretchers available, you can use available materials to make improvised
stretchers.
• Rolled blanket
• Blanket with 2 poles
• shirts and 2 poles
• gunnysacks with 2 poles
• Chair method
50 51

INSURANCE
Accidents or disasters can never be totally prevented or predicted. If your property
is destroyed or damaged, you have to dig deep into your savings to repair or replace
your property and its contents. A cheaper option for you is to buy insurance which
will cover you for the loss of your property and its contents.
There are many types of insurances but the most appropriate insurance for your
building and contents is the Fire Insurance. This insurance does not only cover
damage due to fire but also damage caused by:
• Lightning
• Explosion of your water heater
• Bursting or overflowing of your water tanks
• Motor vehicles and aircraft
• Earthquake, windstorm and flood
If you are unable to stay in your home after it is damaged by fire, the insurance will
also pay for your hotel or accommodation expenses. Alternatively, if you are renting
out your home, you can buy a cover for loss of your rental income. You have to pay
a little more for such covers.
You should check with your insurance company to find out which insurance is
suitable for you.
This message is brought to you by:
about general Insurance association
Established in 1965, the General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA) is working
to make all aspects of insurance easier and more effective for consumers, agents and
insurance companies in Singapore. GIA helps identify emerging trends and responds
to issues affecting the General Insurance industry. It seeks to promote the overall
growth and development of the General Insurance sector in Singapore.
For more information on General Insurance, please visit GIA’s website at www.gia.
org.sg or write to feedback@gia.org.sg
Module 4
Emergency Procedures
52 53
Module 4

CoNTeNTs Page
Peacetime emergencies ................................................................... 57
- Lightning ............................................................................ 57
- Floods ............................................................................... 58
- Tremors ............................................................................. 59
- Tsunami ............................................................................. 61
- Power Outage ................................................................... 62
- Landslides ......................................................................... 63
- Earthquakes ...................................................................... 65
- Typhoons and tropical storms ........................................... 67
Emergency procedures during wartime ........................................... 69
Ready bag ........................................................................................ 71
Stockpiling ....................................................................................... 73
Shelter protection ............................................................................. 74
Public warning system ..................................................................... 78
Defensive precautions ...................................................................... 79
54 55

PEACETIME EMERGENCIES
Peacetime emergencies are natural or man-made crises that affect lives and
properties, for example, power outage, tremors and floods. If we know what to do
during such emergencies, we can greatly increase our chances of survival.
LIGHTNING
When there is a thunderstorm in your area, seek shelter in any building or vehicle and
stay away from metal objects and fixtures for your safety.
If you are indoors
• Avoid showering; plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity
• Avoid using a corded telephone unless it is an emergency; cordless and mobile
phones are safe to use
• Unplug electrical and electronic equipment such as computers and air
conditioners; power surges caused by lightning can damage these items
If you are outdoors
• Do not stay on high ground
• Do not stay in the open. Seek shelter in a building or vehicle; if this is not
possible, seek shelter under a thick growth of small trees and crouch into a ball
on the ground
• Do not stand under isolated or tall objects
• Head for shore if you are in open water
• If you are travelling on a bicycle, motorcycle or golf cart, please get off as soon
as possible
• Spread out if you are in a group
avoid doing these when lightning occurs
• Using electrical and electronic equipment
• Holding metal objects
• Standing near metal fences, pipes or rails
56 57

FLOODS
Heavy rainfall and storms can lead to flash flood in Singapore. This would normally
occur during the northeast monsoon season as well as the inter-monsoon periods.
During the northeast monsoon season, the rain spell may last for a few days.
If you are indoors
• Do not touch electrical and electronic equipment if you are wet
or standing in water
• Once water gets into the unit, turn off the main power supply in
case of electrocution
• If you are situated in a low-rise building, lock your unit and
move essential items to an upper floor. You can also protect
your items by placing them on elevated level
• You can place sandbags at entrances to block flood water
• If you need to evacuate, bring your Ready Bag along and turn
off the main water, electricity and gas supplies
If you are outdoors
• Pedestrians
Be alert and move immediately to higher ground. Do not
wait for instructions to move. Stay put until the flood
subsides
Be aware of drains especially open drains and areas
known to flood suddenly
Do not walk through moving water as a mere 15cm high
of moving water can make you fall; if you must, use a
stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you
and try to walk where the water is not moving
Call the SCDF at 995 or the Police at 999 if help is needed
• Motorists
Do not drive around barricades as they are put up for your safety
Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwater rises around your car,
abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. 30cm
of water can stall your car. 60cm of water can carry away most vehicles
including SUVs
Call the SCDF at 995 or the Police at 999 if help is needed
TREMORS
To date, tremors felt in Singapore have all been due to earthquakes in the region and
there are no records of a tidal surge affecting the island. The Meteorological Services,
National Environment Agency (NEA), the SCDF and the Police will take immediate
action should there be indications of such ground movements posing a threat to
Singapore.
Can earthquakes hit singapore?
Singapore is not located within an earthquake zone. The nearest earthquake belts
are about 400-600 km away in Sumatra. Strong earthquakes in Indonesia can cause
some vibrations or tremors to buildings in Singapore. Because of the distance, the
tremors are likely to be weak.
Will buildings collapse because of tremors?
Buildings in Singapore are designed with in-built strength and are unlikely to collapse
because of tremors caused by distant earthquakes. As an added precaution,
engineers from the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Housing and
Development Board (HDB) will inspect affected buildings.
If you are indoors when tremors occur
a. Stay calm. Do not panic.
b. Stay away from windows, display shelves, lightings and
other fixtures that could fall and cause injury.
c. Take cover under a sturdy table until the tremors stop
d. Do not be alarmed if the electricity is cut off or fire
sprinklers and alarms are activated.
e. Do not light any naked flames in case of a gas leak.
f. Call the SCDF at 995 or the Police at 999 if there is a medical emergency.
If you are outdoors when tremors occur
• Stay away from buildings, overhead electrical cables, trees, signboards and
other structures that may fall and cause injury
• Remain in the open until the tremors stop
• If you are driving, stop as quickly as safety permits. Avoid stopping near or under
trees, buildings, bridges or overhead electrical cables. Stay in your vehicle
58 59

When tremors stop
a. Get out from under the table and switch off all gas and electrical appliances.
b. Stay away from any hanging objects and damaged electrical wiring.
c. Check your building for new cracks on the walls, floors, columns and beams.
d. Contact Building and Construction Authority at 63257191/63257393 (24hr
hotline for non-HDB buildings) or the Essential Maintenance Service Unit
(EMSU) (24-hr hotline for HDB buildings; the telephone number can be found
outside the lift at HDB buildings) if new cracks are found.
e. Evacuation is only necessary if there are visible signs of structural defects (e.g.
new cracks).
f. If you need to evacuate, ensure that all lights, electrical and gas appliances
are switched off and turn off all taps. Bring along your Ready bag and use the
staircases instead of the lifts.
g. Get latest updates on radio or TV.
h. Call the SCDF at 995 or the Police at 999 if there is a medical emergency.
TSUNAMI
A tsunami is a series of ocean waves that sends surges
of water, sometimes reaching heights of over 100 feet
(30.5 meters), onto land. These waves are mostly caused
by large, undersea earthquakes, underwater landslides or
volcanic eruptions. All tsunamis are potentially dangerous
and can be extremely violent and damaging when they hit
the shore.
Can singapore be affected by tsunami?
The risk of Singapore being affected directly by a
tsunami is very low due to the protection provided
by surrounding land masses such as Peninsular
Malaysia in the north and Borneo in the east.
Nonetheless, the NEA has implemented an early
warning system to closely monitor the occurrence
of tsunamis.
Warning signs of an incoming tsunami
• Tremors and ground movements at the beach or near the ocean
• Sudden receding of the shoreline and sea level, sometimes by a kilometre or
more
If you encounter a tsunami
• Once you experience either or both warning signs of an incoming tsunami, run
to higher ground immediately; do not approach the beach to investigate or wait
for the tsunami warning to be given
• If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately
• Do not stay in low-rise buildings in the coastal area
• Move inland quickly to higher ground; if there is no time for that, seek refuge in
the upper floors of high-rise, reinforced concrete buildings
• If you are on a boat or similar vessel that is far from shore, move it out to deeper
waters; if you are near the pier, it may be safer to leave the vessel there and
move to higher ground
• Do not assume it will be safe to go out into the open after the first wave as there
may be subsequent waves
60 61

POWER OUTAGE
It is recommended that you pack a torchlight, radio and spare batteries in your Ready
Bag in case of power outages. Matches and candles are not advisable as they may
be difficult to handle without adequate lighting. The Ready Bag will therefore need to
be stored somewhere easy to reach even in the dark.
When a power outage occurs
• Retrieve your Ready Bag, turn on the torchlight and tune in to the radio for
updates on the situation
• If people are trapped in the lift during a power outage:
Do not dial 995 or 999 unless there is a lifethreatening
situation or a need for emergency
ambulance services
Call the Essential Maintenance Service Unit
for help (24-hr hotline for HDB buildings; the
telephone number can be found outside the lift
at HDB buildings)
Call the management or security office for non-HDB buildings
Do not attempt to rescue the people yourself
• If you are trapped in the lift, stay calm, press the alarm button and wait for help
to arrive; do not attempt to force open the lift doors
• If you are on the road and the street lights go off,
keep your headlights turned on at all times and drive
slowly
LANDSLIDES
Landslides are typically preceded by irregularities in slope profile. Should you
notice any signs of slope failure listed below, it is recommended that you engage
a professional engineer to inspect, assess and recommend solutions to rectify the
problem.
signs of slope failure
• New cracks in and bulging or misalignment of the
earth
• Tilted trees, fences and utility poles along slopes
• Accumulation of water behind retaining walls or
new locations of water breaking through the ground
surface
• Erosion or washing away of vegetation and top soil
on the slope
• Upheaval of ground at or near the bottom of the slope
When a landslide occurs and debris flows
• If it is safe to do so, turn off all gas, electricity and water supplies as they may
cause additional damage
• Inform your neighbours
• Grab your Ready Bag and evacuate immediately if safety permits; move out of
the path of the landslide
• If escape is not possible, curl into a ball and protect your head
• If you are driving, be especially alert and look out
for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks and other
signs of a possible debris flow
• If you or others are trapped, dial 995 for the SCDF
if possible and tune in to the radio or television for
updates on the landslide situation. Wait for rescue
and stay calm and alert
62 63

after a landslide
• Stay away from the affected area, building
structures and electrical cables as there may be
more landslides
• Direct rescuers to the locations of injured and
trapped persons near the affected area; do not
enter the hazard area
• Dial 995 for the SCDF or 999 for the Police to
report any emergencies
• Seek clearance and follow instructions from relevant authorities before returning
to affected houses
• Report structural defects to the:
Building and Construction Authority at 63257191/63257393 (24-hr hotline
for non-HDB buildings)
Essential Maintenance Service Unit (24-hr hotline for HDB buildings; the
telephone number can be found outside the lift at HDB buildings)
• Tune in to the radio or television for updates on the situation
• Replant damaged ground as soon as possible to reduce the risk of flash floods
and recurring landslides
EARTHQUAKES
During earthquakes, most injuries occur when people attempt to leave or move
around buildings while the earth is still shaking. In fact, collapsing walls, flying glass
and falling objects are the greatest causes of injury and death during earthquakes.
While Singapore does not experience earthquakes, it is important that you follow
the guidelines below to increase your chances of survival should you encounter an
earthquake overseas.
If you are indoors
a. When the shaking starts, drop to the
ground and take cover under a sturdy table
or furniture immediately; hold on until the
shaking is over.
b. If no furniture is available to serve as shelter,
move to a safe place nearby (e.g. an inside
corner of a building or an interior wall away
from windows, mounted shelves or anything
that can fall and hurt you) and crouch down
while covering your face and head with your
arms.
c. Stay indoors until the shaking stops and
you are sure that it is safe to exit; if you must
leave the building after the shaking stops,
do not use the lifts in case of aftershocks,
power outage or other damages.
If you are outdoors
• Minimise your movement and stay away from buildings, street lights and utility
wires
• Stay put in the open until the shaking stops
• If you are driving:
Stop as soon as safety permits and away from buildings, trees, overhead
bridges and electrical cables
Stay in the vehicle and tune in to the radio for situation updates
64 65

When the earthquake has stopped
• Expect aftershocks any time from the next few hours to even months after the
initial shockwave; each time you feel one, crouch down beside a safe interior
wall or at an inside corner and cover your face and head with your arms
• Do a quick check in your area for damage and get everyone to evacuate if there
are visible structural defects
• Help injured and trapped people, if any, and dial the local emergency services
number to render assistance and direct rescuers to them
• If possible, turn off the gas and electrical mains and be alert to smells of gas
leakage, spilled chemicals and flammable liquids
• Look out for signs of fire; put out small fires if possible
• Beware of fallen power lines or broken gas pipes and stay out of damaged areas
and buildings
• Tune in to the radio for updates
• If you are trapped under debris or rubble, refer to pg 97 to enhance your rate of
survival
TYPHOONS AND TROPICAL STORMS
Avoid travelling overseas during the typhoon season of your destination country, if it
has one. It is recommended that you keep yourself updated on the country’s weather
watch to avoid being caught in a typhoon or tropical storm while outdoors. You might
also wish to stock up on food and water in the event that you are trapped indoors
due to a storm.
When a typhoon or tropical storm strikes in your area
• Evacuate if directed by local authorities; otherwise, seek shelter indoors
immediately
• Secure or move outdoor items such as toys, bicycles, potted plants and heavy
objects into the apartment and away from the windows
• Close all doors and windows; draw the curtains across windows to minimise
glass fragments from flying in should the windows shatter
• If a window breaks, place a mattress against the broken pane and push a piece
of heavy furniture against it
• Get hold of a torchlight and a first aid kit to prepare for any possible power
outage and injuries caused by the storm
66 67

• Set your freezer to its lowest temperature to minimise food spoilage in the event
the power supply is cut off
• Tune in to a portable radio for updates on the situation
• If possible, check for fire, electrical and gas hazards within the apartment during
the storm
• If the storm gets severe, move to the area in the apartment which is least
exposed to external glass windows and lie down or hide under a table
• Do not step outdoors when the storm appears to have stopped; the winds may
pick up again after a short period of calm
• When the storm is declared to be over, check for broken glass, fallen trees,
broken power cables and other hazards in your area
• Dial for the area’s emergency ambulance if there are cases of severe injury
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES DURING WARTIME
When disasters strike, daily life routine will be disrupted and essential goods and
services may not be easily available. When that happens, emergency procedures will
be put in place to help you obtain basic supplies so that life can carry on as normally
as possible. Your chances of survival, however, may be greatly affected if you are
unfamiliar with the procedures. Take the opportunity to learn these procedures
hands-on when the SCDF and other government agencies conduct an Emergency
Exercise in your constituency.
Water rationing
When water supply is disrupted,
distribution points will be set up near your
home. You will need to bring your own
containers (e.g. pails and bottles) to the
nearest distribution point and collect the
water in an orderly manner.
Food rationing
a. You will receive a Notification Letter, detailing on food ration collection details
including where, when and how to collect the rations.
b. Bring along your identity document (e.g. NRIC) for registration and collection.
Fuel rationing
a. You will receive a Notification Card.
b. Bring the card along with your identity document (e.g. NRIC) to the designated
Collection Centre.
c. Collect your fuel ration coupon.
d. Use the fuel ration coupon to buy your fuel.
68 69

Blood donation
Blood is vital in treating various illnesses and injuries, and its demand is expected
to rise sharply during wartime. As such, we encourage you to go forth and donate
blood if you are able to. When you hear the appeal to give blood during wartime,
bring along your identity document (e.g. NRIC) to the nearest blood donation centre
for registration and a medical professional will attend to you.
READY BAG
The Ready Bag contains important items that will help you in an emergency. You will
need to bring it along should you be required to evacuate your home or it can be
taken to your household shelter when required. Every member of your family should
know where the Ready Bag is kept, and it is recommended that the storage location
be easily accessible even in the dark (i.e. during power outages).
The Ready Bag should contain the following items:
Essential items Usage
Torchlight without batteries In case of power outage and when evacuating in
dark conditions.
Batteries For powering the torchlight and radio; pack extra
batteries and do not fit batteries into the devices
until needed, as leaving them there may result in
leakage.
Essential personal medication For any existing medical condition of yours and
your family, e.g. asthma, heart problems etc.
Waterproof folder containing
photocopies of important documents
e.g. NRIC, passport, insurance policies
70 71
For administrative purposes should the original
documents be destroyed in the fire.
Civil Defence Emergency Handbook For reference on basic first aid and civil defence
procedures.
Transistor radio without batteries For tuning in to emergency broadcasts.
Whistle Used to call for help or alert others; shouting may
be tiring, ineffective and may cause you to inhale
dangerous amounts of smoke and dust in some
cases.
First aid kit To treat any injuries along the way; a small kit
containing first aid dressing, plasters, bandages
etc.
Childcare supplies and other special
care items
EMERGENCY
HANDBOOK
To meet the needs of any special groups in the
family, e.g. infants.

optional items for the Ready Bag
• A list of personal contacts, including telephone numbers of family members, the
workplace, school etc.
• Cash, preferably in small denominations
• Bottled water and dry foodstuff
• A set of spare clothing, e.g. T-shirt and track pants
• Writing materials
• A list of emergency numbers, e.g. 995, 999, telephone numbers of the utility
companies, insurance companies etc.
Note
• You may have more than one Ready Bag, e.g. one for each family member;
decide what is most practical for your family
• Do not pack bulky items into the Ready Bag as it may hamper movement during
an emergency
• Check expiry dates of perishable items in the bag and replace them when
needed
• Periodically replace batteries with fresh ones as some may leak even when
unused and not placed inside devices
The Ready Bag should be
portable and not too heavy
or bulky.
STOCKPILING
Stocking up on food supply can help you and your loved ones survive an emergency.
During an emergency, you may need to stay home for longer periods or there may be
shortage of food supplies. Routinely stock up on items according to your needs and
preferences; consume and replenish items whose expiry dates are drawing near. The
quantities should last for two weeks’ consumption and they will vary depending on
the size of your family.
estimated consumption of foodstuff per person for 2 weeks
Rice and oil • 4 kg of rice
• 1 bottle of cooking oil
Canned food • 14 assorted cans of vegetables, meat, fish and beans
(about 400g per can)
Dry rations • 2 packets of assorted biscuits (about 210g each)
• 15 packets of instant noodles
Beverages • 1-2 tins of milk powder (dependent on age of child)
• 1 packet of sugar (500g)
• 1 tin of malted beverage (about 400g)
72 73
SUGAR SUGAR
SUGAR SUGAR

SHELTER PROTECTION
There are three basic types of Civil Defence shelters.
Household and storey shelters
Household shelters refer to those inside individual dwelling unit, e.g. HDB flats,
while storey shelters are larger versions of household shelters and they are located
in a common area on every storey. Fire escape staircase can also be adapted and
configured to serve as shelters and are known as staircase storey shelters.
• Preparing the shelter
During a wartime emergency, the SCDF will inform residents to prepare their
household shelters for occupation by:
a. Turning off all gas and water supplies
before heading to the shelter.
b. Removing all temporary fixtures and
shelves inside the shelter.
c. Bringing in your Ready Bag(s) and items
such as water and food for your stay in
the shelter.
d. Equipping the shelter with a telephone,
television and radio.
e. Closing and sealing the two ventilation
openings.
• Once the shelter is prepared
a. Move quickly and calmly
into the shelter and close
the door.
b. Sit away from the door and
walls of the shelter and do
not lean on them.
c. Tune in to the radio for
important messages
issued by the SCDF; you
can leave the shelter once
the PWS “All Clear” signal
is sounded.
EMERGENCY
HANDBOOK
WATER
WATER
• Ventilation openings
Aside from the lighting, power, telephone and television/radio points provided in the
household and storey shelters, there are two ventilation openings in the shelter walls.
During peacetime
74 75
Note
o Leave at least 25% of the ventilation opening uncovered in case
anyone gets trapped inside the shelter
During a wartime emergency
o Using ordinary household tools, close both ventilation openings tightly
with the steel plates provided to ensure that the shelter is airtight; this
will protect you and your family from inhaling contaminants from the
outside
o With both ventilation
openings closed tightly,
you can stay inside the
shelter for several hours;
the actual duration of stay
will depend on factors such
as the number of people in
the shelter as well as their
age, gender and physical
condition
o Should there be a need for
you to lengthen your stay or
accommodate more people
in the shelter, the SCDF will
inform you to affix specified equipment to the opening to improve
ventilation
For dwelling units without the household and storey shelters, follow SCDF’s
instructions which will be given at that time to prepare improvised covers inside your
home using available household items and furniture. Such an improvised cover would
provide a considerable degree of shielding against flying debris and glass splinters.

Public shelters
Public shelters are built in places such as underground
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations, HDB void decks,
schools, community centres and government buildings.
To identify a public shelter, look out for the Civil Defence
shelter sign. The list of Public Shelters and their
locations is available on www.scdf.gov.sg under Building
Professionals, CD Shelter.
• When you are not at home and you hear the “Alarm” signal
Shelter
a. Move fast towards your nearest public shelter but do not push; if you are
in a vehicle, park it at the side of the road, lock up and head for the nearest
shelter.
b. If you are unable to find a public shelter within a few minutes after the PWS
“Alarm” signal has sounded, you may seek shelter in a tunnel, underpass,
underground basement, ditch, drain culvert or even an open drain.
c. Follow directions given by SCDF personnel.
d. If you are with your family, move as a unit to avoid anxiety and help the
handicapped, children and the aged.
e. Do not bring bulky items and flammable substances into the shelter.
• Once inside the public shelter
76 77
Move in towards the centre of the shelter and do not block the entrances
and passageways
Stay together as a group and do not wander around
Do not start a fire to cook meals
Keep quiet and listen to the radio and television announcements made by
the SCDF
Inform SCDF personnel if you encounter any problems
• Leaving the Public Shelter
Leave the shelter only when directed by the authorities
Move as a family unit
Be patient; do not push and rush

PUBLIC WARNING SYSTEM
The Public Warning System (PWS) is a network of sirens placed by the SCDF at
strategic points across Singapore to warn the public of imminent threats that may
endanger lives and property. The PWS will be used to warn the public of military
attacks and disasters, both natural and man-made. The table below shows the
different signals and what you should do when you hear them.
Signal How it sounds Situation What you need to do
Alarm Wailing blasts An air raid or danger is
approaching
All Clear Continuous
blasts
Important
Message
Note
Move to a shelter
immediately
The threat is over Leave the shelter in an
orderly manner
Pulsating blasts An important broadcast
will be aired via the
radio
Tune in to any local
FM radio station
immediately
• To listen to an audio recording of the various PWS signals, dial 1800 367 7233
• The “Important Message” signal is sounded at 1205hrs on the 15th of February
and 15th of September each year in observation of Total Defence Day and Civil
Defence Day respectively; when you hear the signal, please tune in to the local
FM radio stations for an important broadcast from the SCDF
DEFENSIVE PRECAUTIONS
Preventing damage
Although we cannot control the use of weapons (e.g. bombs and other projectiles)
that cause damage during wartime, there are measures we can take to minimise
damage to property, such as:
• Reinforcing all glass surfaces with tape to reduce shattering
• Removing all objects hanging on walls and sitting on balconies and windowsills
78 79

Blackout measures
While a total blackout cannot prevent enemy air raids or shelling, it can reduce the
enemy’s ability to identify and pinpoint targets. Blackout measures include:
• Switching off all exterior lights
• Covering all outlets of interior light such as windows and doors with curtains
• Covering vehicle headlights with black tape and leaving only a small area
exposed
Module 5
Terrorism
80 81
Module 5

CoNTeNTs Page
Chemical threats .............................................................................. 85
Biological threats .............................................................................. 88
Anthrax ............................................................................................. 91
Bomb threats .................................................................................... 92
Dirty bomb threats ............................................................................ 98
In-Place Protection ........................................................................... 101
Decontamination procedures ........................................................... 104
Public transport security .................................................................. 106
82 83

Following the September 11 attacks, the possibility of CBRE (Chemical, Biological,
Radiological and Explosive) devices being used in terrorist attacks against innocent
civilians is a growing concern. Understanding the threat and knowing what actions to
take are therefore essential in our fight against terrorism.
CHEMICAL THREATS
A chemical agent attack is the deliberate release of hazardous chemical substances
to kill, seriously injure or incapacitate people. Numerous chemical agents can be
dispersed in an attack via improvised explosive devices, spray devices, military
weapons and other means. Such agents include nerve, blister, blood and choking
agents.
signs of a possible chemical agent attack
• Many people in the same area displaying symptoms such as:
Watery eyes or dim vision
Headaches or giddiness
Shortness of breath
Dryness of throat, coughing
or extreme irritation to the
respiratory tract
Nausea or vomiting
Salivation
Chest tightness
Redness of skin with severe
pain and formation of blisters
upon contact
Muscle twitching, seizures or convulsions
Incontinence
Unconsciousness
• Three or more people collapsing for no apparent reason
• Many sick or dead birds and small animals in the affected area
84 85

In the event of a chemical agent attack
• If possible, quickly determine the areas affected or where the chemical release
is coming from
• If the attack occurs indoors, cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth
(e.g. wet towel) and quickly evacuate the building without passing through the
contaminated area(s)
• If the attack occurs outdoors and you are in the open, cover your mouth and
nose with a cloth and move away from the affected area(s)
• Seek shelter as soon as possible and perform In-Place Protection; do not walk
into the wind as it may carry along the hazardous chemicals
• If you are in your vehicle when the attack occurs, head to your home, office
or public building immediately if they are very nearby and perform In-Place
Protection indoors; otherwise, perform In-Place Protection in your vehicle
• Do not leave the safety of the shelter to help others until the authorities say that
it is safe to do so
If you have been exposed to a chemical agent
If you experience any abnormal symptoms such as those listed on pg 85, you
may have been exposed to a chemical agent. You should then head to the nearest
decontamination facility. If that is not possible:
a. Look for the nearest water source
b. Strip immediately and cut off contaminated clothing which is normally removed
over the head to avoid contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. Tie up the
contaminated clothes in a bag, if available, for proper disposal later on as
instructed by the authorities.
c. Rinse yourself thoroughly; use soap if it is available.
d. Seek immediate medical assistance if possible.
e. Dial 995 for the SCDF, informing them that you may have been exposed to a
chemical agent and your location.
f. Stay calm and await assistance from the SCDF.
If you suspect that someone has been exposed to a chemical agent
• Do not attempt to administer first aid on the affected person; you may be
affected by the chemical and become a casualty too
• Stay away from the affected area and dial 995 for the SCDF
86 87

BIOLOGICAL THREATS
A biological agent attack is the deliberate release of biological agents in the form
of living micro-organisms and biological toxins to kill or incapacitate people. Such
agents can be released into the environment by aerosol sprays, food and water
contamination and infected organisms like mosquitoes and rats. Some biological
agents are contagious (e.g. smallpox).
signs of a possible biological agent attack
A biological agent attack may not be immediately obvious as there is an incubation
period during which the effects of the agent(s) are not observable. You will thus need
to look out for:
• Unusual powdery or gel-like substances and suspicious articles
• Reports on trends of unusual illnesses in the community
• Waves of ill people seeking emergency medical attention
In the event of a biological agent attack
Due to the latent effects of biological agents, it takes time to identify and confirm a
biological agent attack. As a result, public health officials may not be able to provide
information on immediate actions to take against a biological agent attack. It is
recommended that you take the following precautions:
Hand
Sanitizer
• Practise good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid the spreading of germs
• Monitor the news closely for further information on the symptoms of the
biological agent(s) and where to seek emergency medical care if you are affected
• Do not assume that any illness or symptom is due to the declared biological
emergency as many common illnesses have similar symptoms; you are advised
to seek medical advice if you are unsure
88 89
Anti-bacterial
Handsoap

If you have been exposed to a biological agent
• You may not suffer from any obvious symptoms, but you should quickly
identify where the suspected biological release is, if possible, and move away
immediately
• Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth while moving away from the
source area
• If you are indoors, inform the building management, and dial 999 to report to
the Police that you have been exposed to a biological agent; leave your contact
information should there be an urgent need to reach you
• At the earliest opportunity, shower thoroughly with water and soap and change
into a clean set of clothing; tie up the contaminated clothes in a bag for proper
disposal as instructed by the authorities
• If you or a family member becomes ill, seek medical advice at the hospital(s)
indicated by the authorities
If you think someone has been exposed to a biological agent
• You may help the casualty if you have adequate respiratory protection (e.g.
an N-95 mask); otherwise, keep a distance from the person and avoid direct
contact
• Dial 995 for help from the SCDF or 999 for the Police
ANTHRAX
Anthrax is a disease caused by bacteria and its powdery form, though not contagious,
is a threat to public safety. In Singapore, the SCDF, Police, Ministry of Health and
Singapore Post have taken precautionary measures to deal with this threat.
If you suspect that an article contains anthrax
a. Dial 995 or 999 for help from the SCDF or the Police respectively; inform the
security personnel and/or management if you are in a building.
b. Do not handle the article directly,
sniff the article or its exposed
contents, or attempt to clean up the
spilled contents, if any.
c. If the article is already opened,
cover the exposed and spilled
contents immediately with a plastic
cover, cloth, paper or even a trash
can; do not remove the cover until
the authorities arrive.
d. Turn off all local fans or ventilation
units in the affected area.
e. Leave the room and close the door
or block off the area to prevent
others from entering.
f. Head to the nearest toilet or washing point and wash your hands and any
exposed skin with soap and water.
g. At the earliest opportunity, remove all clothing (see pg 87, Step b), shower
thoroughly with soap and water and change into a new set of clothing; do not
use bleach or other strong disinfectants on your skin.
h. Clothing that may have been exposed to anthrax should be sealed in a plastic
bag and disposed of properly according to guidelines given by the authorities.
i. Prepare a list of names and contact numbers of all persons who were in the
vicinity of the suspicious article and hand the list over to the Police for follow-up
investigations.
90 91

BOMB THREATS
Bomb threats are usually verbal or written threats to detonate explosive or incendiary
devices and cause damage to lives and property. The devices may or may not exist.
If you see a suspicious article or an unexploded bomb
a. Dial 999 immediately and report it to the Police; provide details such as the
shape, size, colour and location of the suspected bomb.
b. Do not touch or move the suspected bomb.
c. Move away from it and warn people in the area to stay away from the suspected
bomb.
d. For evacuation procedures, refer to pg 96.
If you receive a bomb threat over the telephone
a. Stay calm and if possible, signal for someone nearby to dial 999 to make a
Police report and another person to inform the building management staff
immediately.
b. Keep the caller talking for as long as possible to buy time and try to jot down the
exact words used by the caller in the threat.
c. Try finding out from the caller:
When the bomb will explode
Where the bomb is placed
What type of bomb it is and how it looks like
What will trigger the bomb to explode
If he planted the bomb himself and why
What message the caller is trying to convey and to whom
His name and current location
d. Take note of how the caller sounds, e.g.:
Caller’s vocal characteristics, e.g. voice of a man, woman or child, possible
age etc.
Language used and accent
Articulation, e.g. caller speaks fluently or stutters
Tone of voice, e.g. emotional, angry or calm
Background noises, e.g. sounds of traffic, music, announcements etc.
e. Do not antagonise or taunt the caller in any way
f. Do not spread rumours.
92 93

If you receive a suspicious letter or parcel
a. It may be a bomb if it has:
• Excessive postage despite its weight
• Been overly secured with string or adhesive tape
• An odd shape, size or rigid feel
• Oily stains or discolouration on the wrapping material
• An unusual odour that smells like almonds
• Metal contents whereby gently shaking the article gently produces metallic
sounds
• Wires or aluminium foil sticking out from the article
• Unfamiliar handwriting
• Only the recipient’s name on it or restrictive markings such as “Personal”,
“Confidential” and “To be opened by addressee only”
b. Do not try to open the letter or parcel if you suspect it to contain explosives;
most bombs are designed to detonate when the outer wrapping is torn or cut
open.
c. If you are unsure of its origin and you have reason to suspect it to be a bomb,
report it to the Police immediately by dialling 999.
d. Place the suspected letter or parcel bomb in a corner of a room away from the
windows.
e. Evacuate the room, and the building if necessary, while leaving all doors and
windows open to mitigate the effects of shattering glass should the bomb
explode.
f. Inform the building management and security personnel, providing clear details
on the location of the letter or parcel bomb.
g. Await further instructions from the authorities.
In the event of an explosion
• If you are hurt:
Do not use your mobile phone to call for help
as it may trigger secondary explosions; use a
whistle or shout to get the rescuers’ attention
If you are able to evacuate, move away from
the affected area. If you are trapped, refer to
pg 97
Do not move unnecessarily as you may
worsen your injuries
• If you are not in the affected area, stay away
from the explosion site and do not dial 995 or 999 unless you encounter an
emergency; tune in to the radio or television for updates
• After an explosion, beware of post-blast hazards such as:
94 95
Damaged structures, walls, beams, columns and overhanging slabs
Craters in the ground
Sharp debris and broken glass
Smoke, fires and toxic fumes
Water and gas leakages due to damaged utility pipes and exposed live
electrical cables
Potential secondary bomb devices
• Ensure your own safety before helping others
Do not use your mobile
phone near a bomb
threat or explosion site.
• If safety permits and you are a trained first-aider, treat casualties where they are
until the arrival of emergency responders
• If you are not trained in first aid, move away from the hazard area; note the
locations of severely injured casualties and inform rescuers to attend to them

evacuating from an explosion site
• Stay calm and do not panic
• Bring along only what is necessary and evacuate in an orderly manner
• Do not use the elevators as they may malfunction; use the stairs but do not keep
the doors propped open as that will allow more smoke to enter the stairway
• Do not run; walk briskly and help the disabled, children and the elderly along the
way
• Keep roads and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and rescuers while
looking out for them
Do not obstruct roads and walkways while evacuating.
Make way for emergency vehicles and rescuers.
• Do not use mobile phones, radios or any electronic equipment at a bomb site as
they may trigger secondary explosions
• At the earliest opportunity, let your loved ones know that you are safe
• Do not spread rumours about the situation
Do not enter a building that has been damaged
by an explosion.
• Do not enter a building whose structure has been damaged by the explosion
• Leave the area and disperse as quickly as possible in case of secondary attacks;
if the attack occurred at your workplace, you may explore alternative means of
accounting for your staff, colleagues, tenants and clients
If you are trapped under debris or rubble
• Crawl under a sturdy piece of furniture (e.g. a desk or bed) which will provide
you with breathing space and protection against falling objects; if that is not
possible, brace yourself against an interior wall devoid of glass windows or
mounted shelves and try to use blankets, boxes and other similar materials for
protection against glass fragments and light debris
• If possible, move away from unstable areas and objects, and put on a pair of
sturdy shoes to protect your feet from broken glass
• Stay put if you are in a safe area; do not attempt to use the stairs or elevators
as you will be exposing yourself to dangers such as falling debris, damaged
stairways and power outages in elevators
• Do not turn on light switches or light matches, fires and gas stoves unless you
are sure that there are no gas leaks
• Be calm, alert and responsive to calls from the rescuers
• Do not shout unnecessarily as you may inhale dangerous amounts of dust while
weakening yourself
• If possible, use a whistle, torchlight or tap on a pipe or wall to attract the
rescuers’ attention
• If you are pinned down by debris, periodically move your fingers and toes to
promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots
• Keep your spirits high by thinking of your loved ones
• Consume food and water from the refrigerator if it is near you; look out for
shattered glass and other debris if you need to eat and drink from an open
source among the debris
96 97

DIRTY BOMB THREATS
Dirty bombs use conventional explosives spiked with radioactive materials. Once
detonated, harmful radioactive materials are dispersed into the air, resulting in
radiological contamination over a wide area.
Types of radiation
Depending on the type(s) of radioactive material used, there are 3 main types of
ionizing radiation which may be emitted from a dirty bomb explosion:
• Alpha radiation
Does not penetrate the human skin
Can seriously harm us if alpha emitting materials are inhaled, swallowed or
absorbed through open wounds
• Beta radiation
Can penetrate the human skin
May cause skin injury if high levels of beta contaminants are allowed to
remain on the skin for a prolonged period of time
• Gamma radiation
It is a long range and penetrating electromagnetic radiation that harms
human cells
It is able to travel for many feet in the air and many inches into human
tissues
Most materials and clothing cannot provide any protection for the skin.
Lead is effective in blocking off gamma radiation
effects of radiation
Depending on the extent of exposure to radiation, effects can range from none to
radiation sickness such as nausea, vomiting, inflammation of exposed areas and
skin burns. In some cases, persons exposed to radiation may develop cancerous cell
growth that may not be apparent until many years later.
Limiting radiation exposure
You can limit the amount of radiation you are exposed to by using the methods below:
• Shielding – Seek shelter in buildings or other structures that will shield you from
the radiation
• Distance – The further away you are from the blast and the radioactive
contamination, the lower your radiation exposure will be
• Time – Minimise time spent in radioactive-contaminated areas so as to lower
total radiation exposure
Possible signs of a dirty bomb attack
• A dirty bomb explosion sounds and looks like a conventional explosion, and
casualties of such explosions are likely to suffer from blast injuries which include
burns and shrapnel wounds
• Specialised equipment are required to detect the presence of radioactive
material in a dirty bomb attack; otherwise, it is almost impossible to differentiate
it from conventional bomb blasts
98 99

In the event of a dirty bomb attack
• If you are outdoors and the explosion/radiation occurs nearby:
Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth and move away from the
hazard area
Do not walk into the wind as it may carry radioactive particles
• If you are indoors and the explosion/radiation occurs near the building:
Check if any walls and building elements have been damaged
If your area is stable, stay put, close all windows and doors and turn off
air-conditioners and other ventilation systems
If it is not stable, evacuate from the damaged building in the same manner
as you would outdoors
• If there is an explosion/radiation in your building:
After an explosion
nearby, check for any
damage to the walls
and building elements.
Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth and leave the building
immediately
If you have been exposed, wait to be decontaminated by SCDF personnel;
otherwise, move away from the hazard area and avoid walking into the
wind as it may carry radioactive particles
• Tune in to the local radio or television channels for advisories from the authorities
on where to report for radiation monitoring and other tests to determine if you
have been exposed to radiation; you will also be given advice on steps to
protect your health
IN-PLACE PROTECTION
You may be required to observe In-Place Protection (IPP) when hazardous substances
are released into the environment intentionally or otherwise. IPP serves to minimise
the infiltration of hazardous materials into your home, school or workplace. If you
are outdoors when a hazardous substance is released, seek shelter and perform IPP
immediately.
IPP room
Prior to an emergency, it is important to designate a room in your home for IPP. The
room should preferably be:
• An inner room that offers some protection against ordinary explosions
• Large enough for the expected number of occupants so that the air in it will last
for as long as required; IPP is expected to be observed for only a few hours
• One with few openings and windows that will require sealing
• One without wall-mounted air-conditioners as they are difficult to reach and seal
properly
• Equipped with an attached bathroom and water supply
IPP kit
You should also prepare an IPP Kit which includes:
• Rolls of wide adhesive sealing tape
(e.g. masking tape)
• Large trash bags or plastic sheets,
trimmed to fit windows and vents in
the pre-selected room for IPP
• A portable battery-operated radio and
extra batteries
• Several pairs of scissors
• Special care items to meet the needs
of special groups (e.g. infants and family members under long-term medication)
• Optional items such as a torchlight, bottled water (if there is no water supply in
the IPP room) and dry rations (sufficient for at least one meal)
100 101
IPP
TRASH
BAG
(10 Packs)

IPP procedure at home
There are three simple steps in carrying out the IPP procedure:
a. Move in
i. When instructions are given by
the authorities to carry out IPP,
stay calm, gather your family
members and pets indoors.
ii. Close and lock all doors, windows
and openings.
iii. Switch off all ventilation and airconditioning
units that draw in air
from the outside; room fans can
be left to run on low speed.
b. Stay in
i. Grab your IPP Kit and head to the
pre-determined room for IPP.
ii. Use the adhesive tape and trash
bags to seal any obvious gaps
around the windows, doors, vents
and other openings; use wet
towels to cover door gaps.
iii. If anyone is affected by the
hazardous substance(s), dial 995
for the SCDF.
c. Tune in
Apply a primary layer of tape to close up any
obvious gaps. If there is time, seal a trash bag
over the window, vent or opening to serve as a
secondary barrier.
i. Tune in to the radio or television for updates on the situation and
instructions from the authorities.
ii. You may leave the room and remove all seals only when instructed by the
authorities.
IPP procedure at school and in the workplace
While the IPP procedure for work and school is similar to that for homes, pre-planning
by the building management is essential in ensuring good coordination and quick
response among the large number of occupants. A sample guideline to preparing
non-residential buildings for IPP is available on www.scdf.gov.sg under Building
Professionals, Publications and Circulars.
IPP procedure in your vehicle
If you are driving when the hazardous substance release occurs, drive to your home,
school or workplace if they are very near and carry out the IPP procedure there. If
that is not possible:
a. Close the windows and vents; if possible, seal the air-conditioning vents with
tape.
b. Drive away from the affected area.
c. Stop at a safe area and cover your nose and mouth with a piece of cloth.
d. Tune in to the radio for updates on the situation and further instructions.
Seal the air-conditioning vents with tape, if possible.
102 103

DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES
In the event of a hazardous material incident involving a chemical, biological or
radiological substance, the SCDF will set up personnel decontamination facilities
on-site to decontaminate the affected persons. This critical process saves lives and
prevents cross contamination. A full decontamination process entails the following
steps:
a. Registration
i. Collect a personal belongings bag and write your NRIC number on it with
a non-soluble ink marker.
ii. Place your valuables in the bag, zip it up and hand the bag over to the
SCDF personnel.
iii. Collect a trash bag and cable tie and proceed to the shower unit.
b. Undressing
i. Remove all clothing and shoes, and cut off
contaminated clothing which is normally
removed over the head to avoid contact with
your eyes, nose and mouth; doing so will remove
up to 80% of the contaminant(s).
ii. Dispose of them into a trash bag and seal the
bag with the cable tie provided; discard the bag
into the trash bin.
c. Showering
i. Collect a sponge, bend forward and wash your
hair first.
ii. Wet your entire body and apply the non-ionic
liquid detergent provided; scrub your body
thoroughly, especially the armpit and groin areas.
iii. Dispose of the used sponge into the trash bin
and shower thoroughly for 2 minutes to rinse off
the detergent.
d. Drying off
104 105
i. Collect a towel and dry your entire body; discard the used towel into the
trash bin.
e. Monitoring
i. Raise your arms to the sides to form a T-shape with your body; this will
allow SCDF personnel to scan your body for any remaining traces of the
contaminant(s).
ii. If residual contaminants are detected, you will need to repeat steps c to e.
f. Getting dressed
i. Once you have been decontaminated, put on the bathrobe and footwear
provided, rest at the temporary holding area and await further instructions
from the SCDF.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT SECURITY
Public transport systems are easy targets for terrorists and vigilance is the key to
safety in this area. If you see anything or anyone suspicious, inform the bus captain,
train operator or transit security personnel immediately. Should there be a threat to
life or cases of injury, dial 999 for the Police or 995 for the SCDF.
When evacuating the train or bus
• If a problem occurs while the train or bus is on the move, do not panic
• Listen carefully to the announcements made by the transport staff and follow
the instructions closely
• Take care of the disabled, children and the elderly
• For trains:
Do not force open the doors and attempt to jump off the train
Head towards either end of the train and evacuate in an orderly manner via
the emergency exits
During evacuation, no electrical power will be running through the train
tracks so you may safely walk on them; emergency lighting and ventilation
will be provided in the trains and tunnels
Useful
Telephone
Numbers
106 107
Useful Telephone
Numbers

Useful Telephone Numbers
Fire and Emergency Ambulance Services 995
Non-Emergency Ambulance Service 1777
Fire Hazard Reporting Line 1800 280 0000
SCDF General Enquiries 1800 286 5555
SCDF Emergency Information
(for information on emergency procedures, PWS,
shelters and personal safety tips)
Police 999
108 109
1800 367 7233
Police Hotline (for general enquiries) 1800 255 0000
PUB, the National Water Agency (for water
supply matters)
SP PowerGrid (to report on electricity supply
interruption)
City Gas
(to report on gas supply interruption/suspected gas
leak)
Building and Construction Authority
(to report structural defects in non-HDB buildings)
HDB’s Essential Maintenance Service Unit
(EMSU)
(to report power failure and structural defects in
HDB buildings; the service number for your building
can be found outside the lift)
1800 284 6600
1800 778 8888
1800 752 1800
6325 7191
6325 7393
1800 275 5555
1800 325 8888
1800 354 3333

110