SCDF has evolved from the lessons learnt through the Nicoll Highway collapse, with advanced equipment and facilities, as well as better training.
Colonel Mohamed Nazim, deputy director of training at SCDF ’s Civil Defence Academy, and Col Chew Keng Tok, commander of the 2nd SCDF Division. The men were involved in search and rescue operations during the Nicoll Highway collapse in 2004.SINGAPORE: Just before 4pm on Apr 20, 2004, Colonel Mohamed Nazim – then a young officer – noticed communication lines in his unit ringing off the hook.
“I managed to find my way into the container office. There were some air pockets that I could surface and do short dives inside the container. But I couldn't find anyone,” said Col Chew. They were among more than 160 SCDF rescuers working in shifts during the round-the-clock operation, which went on for four days.
Col Nazim is the deputy director of training at SCDF’s Civil Defence Academy, while Col Chew is the commander of the 2nd SCDF Division. Training has also greatly improved. The academy now has various facilities that can simulate real-life disasters and crises, and allow officers to train across various aspects, including underwater rescue.
“One of our key that we included is in terms of safety – in any major incident, we cannot be working alone. Teamwork and safety are very important to make any operation more successful.”
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