I was invited as a guest to attend the SCDF (Singapore Civil Defense Force) Parade held at the Singapore EXPO on 14 November 2024. I have attended the Police Day Parade almost every year but this is my first time attending the SCDF Parade. Unlike the Police Day Parade which was held at the Home Team Academy, I was rather surprised that the SCDF Parade is held within the EXPO Hall as the venue does not resemble a parade field. But I was wrong.
The quasi-military display of the marching contingents and the performance of the military band from Swiss Cottage Secondary School NCC were stunning and spectacular. The rotating neon lighting casts a mesmerizing theatrical atmosphere and the acoustic effect was soothingly perfect. I was totally engrossed in the music and song performance by the SCDF officers, and the immersive experience was like finding myself in a concert listening to Richard Marx singing `Here Waiting for You'. Â
The Garnet Room at the 2nd floor was also spacious for the sumptuous buffet spread. I was inspired by the various SCDF units command flags displayed. It looks grand and awesome and command respect.
While I am not a regular staff with SCDF, I am always keen to learn more on fire prevention, fire safety and first aid. I attended the Fire Safety Manager (FSM) and Senior Fire Safety Manager (SFSM) courses conducted by the Civil Defense Academy and I think these are the best courses to learn about fire safety. As a certified Fire Safety Manager, I have to maintain my status quo by continually upgrade my knowledge and skills through attending modular relevant courses.
At workplace, I play the role of fire warden during fire evacuation exercises. At the community level, I am actively involved in the CERT movement to facilitate and prepare our residents in emergency preparedness and equip them with life-saving skills like Standard First Aid, CRP + AED, Psychological First Aid, etc which are usually free and conducted at community centers for our locals.
The SCDF cannot achieve their mission without the support of the community. Let us play our role as a responsible citizen and start our journey to a nation of lifesavers!