emergency handbook 2010 english edition

8/6/2019 Emergency Handbook 2010 English Edition

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EMERGENCY HANDBOOKEMERGENCY HANDBOOK

2010 EDITION


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This Emergency Handbook is also available in Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil.

For enquiries or feedback, you may reach us via the contact details below.

Buku ini juga boleh didapati dalam bahasa Cina, Melayu dan Tamil.

Untuk keterangan lanjut, sila hubungi kami menerusi saluran-saluran berikut.

Address HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force, Public Aairs Department,

91 Ubi Avenue 4, Singapore 408827 Telephone 6848 1524

Fascimile 6289 4401

Email [email protected]

Website www.scdf.gov.sg

Copyright 2010 Singapore Civil Defence Force. All rights reserved.


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Chpter 5

TERRORISM68 Chemical threats71 Biological threats

74 Anthrax

75 Bomb threats

78 In the event of an explosion

79 Evacuating from an explosion site

80 Dirty bomb threats

82 In-place Protection

85 Decontamination procedures

86 Public transport security

Chpter 3

PEACETIME EMERGENCIES40 Ready Bag42 Stockpiling

43 Lightning

44 Floods

45 Tremors

47 Landslides

49 Power outage

50 Typhoons and tropical storms

52 Tsunamis

54 Earthquakes

56 If you are trapped under debris or rubble

Chpter 1

FIRST AIDFirst Aid Kit 4

Bleeding 5

Fractures 6

Burns and Scalds 8

Fits 9

Stroke 10

Sprains 11

Choking 12

Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) 15

Automated External Debrillator (AED) 20

2

3

57

87

23

FOREWORD

GET READY. BE READY. STAY READY.

39

67

Chpter 4

WARTIME EMERGENCIES58 Rationing and blood donation

60 Public Warning System (PWS)

62 Shelter protection

66 Defensive precautions

Chpter 2

FIRE SAFETYGeneral tips on re safety 24

Household re safety checklist 25

Liqueed petroleum gas (lPG) 26

Smoke detectors 27

Fire hazards along common areas 28

When a re breaks out 29

Fire extinguishers 30

Manual call points and hose reels 32

Escaping through smoke 33

Casualty evacuation 34

If you are trapped in a re 36

If your clothes catch re 37

If your car catches re 38


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Foreword

Dear reader,

The SCDF is proud to present the latest edition o our fagship

publication the Emergency Handbook 2010 Edition. Firstpublished in 1990, the handbook enters its 20th year in print

and remains a core pillar in the SCDFs education eorts. Our

continual emphasis in reaching out to the public underscores

the importance o the community in emergency preparedness.

During an emergency, knowing what to do will make the critical

dierence between lie and death. It is with that premise that

the Emergency Handbook was conceived to impart essential

lie-saving skills to help you in times o crisis.

This handbook is complemented by the Community

Emergency Preparedness Programme, which was started in

2003 to provide members o public with hands-on training in

essential lie-saving skills. The value o such skills can be best

illustrated by examples.

Though our reghters are on standby round the clock to

attend to any calls on re incidents, they will take time to

arrive at a re scene and that is very much dependent on trac

conditions. With proper training in the use o a re extinguisher,

you will learn how to put out an incipient re or prevent it rom

developing and spreading urther even beore the responders

arrive. This will certainly minimise the number o casualties

and damage to property. Similarly, the rst ew minutes ater

a person has collapsed rom cardiac arrest are the most crucial

to the casualtys survival. I you are able to perorm CPR, you

can help save someones lie beore the ambulance arrives.

This handbook, together with our Community Emergency

Preparedness Programme, is designed to help you learn such

valuable lie-saving skills.

In reaching out to the various segments o the population, the

SCDF produced an e-book o the Emergency Handbook, as wellas a comic version which is targeted at primary school students

in Singapore. We have also introduced a series o original

iPhone applications based on the contents o this handbook

to cater to the expanding circles o tech-savvy individuals.

In this latest edition o the Emergency Handbook, you will

nd new topics such as basic rst aid or sprains, stroke and

ts as well as advisories on earthquakes and typhoons or

those travelling overseas. In addition to the pictorial text, wehave also made the handbook more reader-riendly with the

introduction o a cross-reerencing index between relevant

sections. The key message in this book, however, remains

constant: R ur ly rc.

I would like to encourage you to read this handbook and share

it with your loved ones. More importantly, keep it always in

your Ready Bag or reerence. I would also urge you to sign

up or our Community Emergency Preparedness Programme

to better equip yoursel with basic civil deence knowledge

and skills. The SCDF looks orward to partnering with you in

keeping Singapore a sae place to live, work and play.

Peter Lim Sin Pang

Commissioner

Singapore Civil Deence Force

2


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Medical emergencies arising rom illnesses and injuries can result

in death or serious complications i not treated immediately. You

can help save a casualtys lie i you are able to render proper

rst aid on-site beore medical help arrives. Remember, you

should dial 995 only i it is an emergency. Otherwise, dial 1777 or

non-emergency ambulance services.

Chpter 1

FIRST AID4 First aid kit

5 Bleeding6 Fractures

8 Burns and scalds

9 Fits

10 Stroke

11 Sprains

12 Choking

15 Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

20 Automated External Debrillator (AED)

3


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4

FirstAid

First Aid Kit

First aid dressing in three sizes

First aid kit on a cabinet in the living room

Padsize

180m

mx180

mm

LARGE

STERIL

EFIRST

AIDDR

ESSING

Padsize120mmx120mmMEDIUMSTERILEFIRSTAIDDRESSING

Padsize100

mmx100

mm

SMALL

STERILE

FIRST

AIDDR

ESSIN

G

It is strongly recommended that each household be equipped with a rst aid kit.

You can purchase one at a drugstore or pharmacy. Remember to monitor the expiry

dates o the supplies in your rst aid kit on a regular basis and replenish them when

necessary. The rst aid kit should be placed somewhere easily accessible to adults yet

remain out o reach o children.

Common items in a fiRst aid kit

Item Usage

TweezersPull out stings and other small oreign objects embeddedin the skin/wounds

Scissors Cut dressing and bandages

Resuscitation ace shieldServe as a protective layer during CPR (Cardio-PulmonaryResuscitation)

Thermometer Measure human body temperature

Disposable glovesProtect the rescuer rom inection transmitted via bloodand bodily fuids

Adhesive tape Secure bandages

DressingProtect the wound rom exposure to dirt and othersources o inection; types include rst aid dressing, sterileeye dressing, adhesive plasters and gauze pads

BandagesTriangular bandages or slings and crepe bandages towrap around wounds (e.g. a cut on the arm)


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5

FirstA

id

Bleeding

Casualty raises handof bandaged arm

above heart level

to stop the beedin:

I there are any oreign objects (e.g. glass ragments)

in the wound, do not press on the object. Avoidapplying direct pressure on the object by building up

padding around it beore bandaging.

Put on protective gloves or place a barrier between you and

the casualtys blood.

1

Check i there are any oreign objects (e.g. glass ragments) in

the wound.

2

I there are no oreign objects in the wound:

. Place a sterile gauze pad over it.

. Apply rm direct pressure on the wound using your palm

or ngers.

c. Secure it with a bandage.

. Elevate the injured arm or leg above the heart level

3


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6

FirstAid A racture is a crack in the bone, and the skin over the racture may be intact or torn.

Fractures

Closed fracture

Open fracture

Calm the casualty down.1

I the casualty has a dislocated shoulder,ractured upper arm, orearm or wrist, apply theopen arm sling as shown.

Treat bleeding wounds, i any. For openractures, stop the bleeding (pg 5) and coverexposed bone ends.

2

Rest, support and immobilise injured part in a

position most comortable or the casualty.

3

Two-step open arm sling

to tReat fRaCtRes:sins of fRaCtRes inCde:

Pain and tenderness

Unnatural shape or position o ractured part

Immobility o ractured limb

Swelling

Bruising

Open wound or open ractures, i.e. when the skin over the

racture is torn

3a


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7

FirstAid

I the casualty has a racture in the leg,straighten the injured leg and bring theuninjured leg (which acts as a splint) tothe injured leg.

Check the casualtys circulation every 10

minutes.

4Seek medical attention or dial 995 or an

ambulance.

5

Slide the bandages under both legs as shown, andinsert padding between the knees and ankles.

Bandage the legs together as shown and knot on theside o the uninjured leg.

Slide bandagesunder both legs

Insertpadding

Figure-of-8bandage at

ankles and broadbandage at knees

Knot onuninjured leg

Bandage above andbelow fracture

3b


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8

FirstAid

Burns And Scalds

a bRn is seveRe if it affeCts:

More than 5% o the casualtys body surace, i.e. a surace area more than ve times the size o his palm

The casualtys mouth, throat, eyes, ears and/or genitals

to tReat a bRn oR sCad, se the foRCs

Cool the aected partunder cold running water orimmerse it in cold water or atleast 10 minutes; or chemicalburns, wash o the chemicals

Constricting accessories suchas bracelets, rings, watchesor clothing are to be gentlyremoved rom the injured areabeore it starts to swell

Cover the burned/scaldedarea with sterile dressing

Consult a doctor i the burn/scald is not severe; otherwise,dial 995 or an ambulance

thins to note when tReatin bRns and sCads

Do not apply toothpaste, lotion, ointment or at to the aected area

Do not cover the aected area with cotton wool

Do not break any blisters or remove anything that is sticking to a burn


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9

FirstAid

Fits

Fits are episodes o uncontrolled movements o the body.

sins of fits

Uncontrolled movements or body spasms

Casualty alling to the ground

Clenching o teeth

Rolling o eyes

Incontinence

Casualty alling asleep once the ts have subsided

when someone is expeRienCin an

episode of fits

Keep dangerous objects out o the way (e.g. scissors and

other sharp items)

Do not restrict the movements o the casualty

Do not place anything in the casualtys mouth

Treat any injuries once the ts are over

Dial 995 or the casualty to receive medical attention


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10

FirstAid A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is disrupted, and it may lead to

long-term disability in the casualty. It is thereore important to seek medical help

as soon as possible when someone collapses rom stroke.

sins of stRoke

Stroke

speech Casualty is unable to speakclearly or understand the spoken word

arms Casualty is unable to raise botharms

Face Casualty is unable to smile andhis eye or mouth may be droopy

Good

Morning

dia 995 foR an ambanCe immediate shod o sspeCtsomeone to be sffeRin fRom stRoke.


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11

FirstAid

Sprains

Sprains occur at joints and involve 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) sin R.i.C.e.

Rest the sprained joint Ice or apply a cold compress tothe sprain

Compress the sprained jointusing a bandage or sot padding

elevate the sprained joint


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12

FirstAid

Using your other hand, tuck your thumb intoyour palm and curl your ngers into a st.

3

Choking

A ully obstructed airway can result in death within minutes i prompt treatment is not

given. Someone who is choking will display the universal sign o distress and he will

be unable to speak, breathe and cough.

Using one hand, locate the casualtys navel using thering nger and place two ngers above the navel asshown.

2

navel

Stand behind the casualty and place one leg betweenthe casualtys legs, making sure the casualtys legs areshoulder-width apart.

1

Universal sign of

distress when choking

if the Casat is Chokin whie ConsCios, peRfoRm the heimiCh manoevRe


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13

FirstAid

Give ve thrusts in a 45o inwards-upwardsmotion and look out or any oreignobjects that all out rom the casualtysmouth. I nothing emerges rom thecasualtys mouth and he is still chokingwhile conscious, continue to give abdominalthrusts until the oreign object is expelled orthe casualty alls unconscious, whichever isearlier.

5Position your st as shown and release the threengers while keeping the st in position. Bend thecasualty orward and cover the st with your otherhand.

4

I the casualty alls unconscious, support andlay the casualty down and proceed to give chestcompressions (pg 18, Step 9)

6


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14

FirstAid

Choking

if the Chokin Casat is obese oR pRenant, peRfoRm Chest thRsts

Stand behind the casualty and place oneleg between the casualtys legs, makingsure the casualtys legs are shoulder-widthapart.

1Slide both arms under the casualtys arms,make a st with your thumb tucked in(pg 12, Step 3) and position it against thecentre o his breastbone. Cover your stwith your other hand.

2Give ve thrusts in an inward motionand ollow through steps 5 and 6 o theHeimlich Manoeuvre (pg 13).

3

CPR


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15

FirstAid

CPR

CaRdio-pmonaR RessCitation (CpR) at a anCe

Check for pulse

Determine Responsiveness

No response

Casualty

responds

Dial 995

Perform Head Tilt Chin Lift

BREATHINGCheck for breathing

AIRWAYCheck for any foreign objects in the airway.

Remove any visible objects.

Give 2 breaths of1 second each

No CPR needed

No breathing

No breathing

breathing

breathingCheck for breathing

No CPR required

Chestrises

Chestdoes not

rise

CIRCULATIONCheck for pulse

Suspected choking

Nopulse

No pulse

Pulse

present

Recovery positionif there is no injury.Monitor breathing

and pulse frequently.

Perform 30 compressionsfor unconscious choking

5 cycles of 30 compressionsand 2 breaths in 2 minutes

Pulse present

12 times rescue breathing;1 breath every 5 seconds

CPR is a lie-saving technique used to rescue casualties

who have collapsed rom cardiac arrest. When perormed

promptly and correctly, CPR may restore the casualtys

heart unction and increase his chances o survival. Youare encouraged to attend our Community Emergency

Preparedness Programme (pg 88) to gain a better

understanding o the CPR procedure.

CPR


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16

FirstAid

CPR

Tap the casualty on his shoulders and shout or his attention;i the casualty is not responsive, proceed to Step 2.

1Appoint someone nearby to dial 995 or an ambulance andanother person to get the Automated External Debrillator(AED), i available. I the casualtys pulse has yet to returnwhen the AED arrives, you may use the AED together with theCPR procedure. Reer to pg 20 on how to use the AED.

2

Hello,hello,

are youOK?

when someone Coapses fRom CaRdiaC aRRest


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17

FirstAid

I the casualty is not lying fat on his back, repositionhim while supporting and turning his head, neck andbody at the same time.

3Pull the chin down gently to check or any oreignobjects in the mouth (especially or choking cases); usea hooked index nger to remove any visible objects wear gloves or use a piece o cloth i possible.

5

Maintain a head tilt or the casualty and place your earover his mouth and nose to eel or breathing; observeor any chest rise and all at the same time. I there isrg, place the casualty in the recovery position

as shown in Step 13 (pg 19). I there is rg,go on to Step 7 to check i the casualtys airway isblocked.

6Open the casualtys airway by perorming the head-tilt-chin-lit manoeuvre as shown; this will lit the tongueo the back o the throat.

4

CPR


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18

FirstAid

Using your hand closer

to the casualtys eet,locate the sternum notchas shown by tracing thelower edge o the rib cagewith your middle nger.Place your index ngernext to your middle ngerand position the heel othe other hand on thebreastbone to meet theindex nger as shown.

9

Release the two ngersand place this hand on topo the other, interlacing thengers rom both hands tosecure the position.

10Check the casualtys pulse at thegroove o his neck as shown bypressing lightly or up to 10 seconds.

Iul l, proceed to checkor breathing (Step 6). Should therebe no breathing, give a 1-secondrescue breath every 5 seconds or 12 times and checkor breathing again. Repeat as necessary until breathingreturns while monitoring the casualtys pulse.

Iul l or the casualty does not show anysigns o movement or breathing, commence chestcompressions (Steps 9 to 12a).

8

8a

8b

To feel for pulse, slidengers 2cm to the side of the

casualtys Adams apple.

Trace the lower rib margin withyour middle nger.

CPR

Maintain a head tilt or the casualty and pinch his nose

to prevent air rom escaping. Next, take a deep breathand seal your lips around the casualtys mouth; usea Resuscitation Face Shield (pg 4) i possible. Give a1-second breath, release the nose, pinch the nose and givea 1-second breath again.

I the casualtys c r with each breath,unconscious choking is conrmed; proceed to perormchest compressions(Steps 9 to 11 and 12b).

I the c r , proceed to Step 8.

67


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19

FirstAid

Perorm chest compressions without the breaths. For

every 30 compressions, check or any oreign objectsemerging rom the casualtys airway or mouth. Continuewith the compressions until the airway is cleared. To checkthe airway, repeat rom Step 5 onwards (pg 17).

Check the casualtys pulse (Step 8) and breathing (Step 6).I the casualty has:

n ul, repeat Steps 12a and 13.

pul u rg, repeat Step 8a until thecasualtys natural breathing is restored.

pul rg, place the casualty in the recoveryposition as shown and monitor his condition closely.

13

Straighten both elbows

and position yourshoulders directly abovethe casualtys chest.

11

Perorm chest compressions.

Perorm 5 cycles o 30 compressions ollowed by 2 breathseach within 2 minutes and proceed to Step 13. Count the30 compressions in sets o 5:

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 10

1 2 3 4 15

1 2 3 4 20

1 2 3 4 25

1 2 3 4 30

12

x 5 in 2 minutes

2 breaths30 compressions

Lean forward anduse your bodyweight to performthe compressions.

Recovery position: Gently roll thecasualty towards you onto hisside. Tilt his head back slightlyto keep his airway open andtuck his hand under his cheekas shown. Bring his top legtowards you and bend his legin a 90o fashion to keep thecasualty from rolling over.

12a

12b

AED


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20

FirstAid

AED

Debrillation increases a casualtys chances o survival in the event o a

cardiac arrest, and it is the only treatment that can restart and restore a

normal rhythm to a heart that has stopped beating.

Automated External Debrillators (AEDs) have thus been installed in

various public premises to enhance the survival rates o casualties in

cardiac arrest cases. The AED is a computerised medical device that is

capable o analysing the casualtys heart rhythm and directs the user to

deliver an electric shock to the casualty. Upon switching on the AED, the

device will read out instructions on how to operate the AED, when to

perorm CPR and when to deliver a shock to the casualty.

the aed Cannot be sed if the Casat is:

Responsive or has pulse and/or breathing

A child younger than 8 years o age or weighs less than 25kg

Obviously dead


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21

FirstAid

to pRepaRe the Casat

Pacemaker

Expose the casualtys chest adequately as debrillation padsneed to be pasted directly onto the skin; tear or cut o anyobstructing abric i necessary.

Remove/push aside any jewellery, accessories or medicatedpatches on the casualtys chest.

Shave excess hair on the casualtys chest to ensure that thedebrillation pads stick well to the skin.

Dry the casualtys chest area o any perspiration and moisture asthose can reduce contact between the debrillation pads andthe skin.

Place debrillation pads away rom pacemakers, i any.

1

2

3

4

5

AED


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22

FirstAid to app the defibRiation pads:

Follow the instructions on the packet and remove the pads

accordingly

Peel o the backing and paste the pads as shown; make surethey are pasted down well with no air pockets

You may now turn on the AED and ollow the machines

pre-recorded instructions. Ensure that no one, including

you, comes into contact with the casualty:

When the AED is analysing the casualtys heart rhythm

Beore you press the Shock button

AED

Follow the AEDs instructions and perorm CPR (pg 16) and rescue breathing as required until the

ambulance arrives or the casualtys pulse and breathing returns, whichever is earlier. Place the

casualty in the recovery position (pg 19) once his pulse and breathing have returned. Monitor the

casualtys pulse and breathing closely as they can stop suddenly.

Paste thedebrillation pads

onto the casualtyas shown.


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23

FirstAid

Chpter 2

FIRE SAFETY24 General tips on re safety

25 Household re safety checklist26 Liqueed Petroleum Gas (LPG)

27 Smoke detectors

28 Fire hazards along common areas

29 When a re breaks out

30 Fire extinguishers

32 Manual call points and hose reels

33 Escaping through smoke

34 Casualty evacuation

36 If you are trapped in a re

37 If your clothes catch re38 If your car catches re

Fires can cause major loss o lives and property i preventive

measures are not adopted. Learning to identiy re hazards and

removing them can minimise the risk o res occurring.

23

General Tips On Fire Safety


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24

FireSafety fiRe is best pRevented b eiminatin fiRe hazaRds

Do not leave cooking unattended; turn o all cooking appliances and unplug them when not in use

Avoid wearing clothes with long loose sleeves when working near heat sources

Never place or store combustible items/materials (e.g. paper and batteries) near heat sources

Do not overload electrical outlets

Check or broken wires and exposed wiring; i any are ound, have the wires replaced

Do not throw burning embers (e.g. hot charcoal) into rubbish chutes without ully extinguishing them rst

Keep matches, lighters and candles away rom children

Children playing with sparklers must be closely supervised by adults; sparklers should be lit at arms length and unused ones

are to be sealed in boxes and kept away rom heat sources

General Tips On Fire Safety

Household Fire Safety Checklist


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25

FireSafety

hosehod fiRe safet CheCkist Yes No

Electrical wiring

and compo-

nents

Do all electrical plugs have the SAFETY mark? p p

Are all electrical outlets safely loaded with only about one to two

plugs per socket?p p

Are all switches o when equipment and appliances are not in use? p p

Are all wires in the house in good condion? (i.e. without broken

insulaon and exposed wiring)p p

Are all wires laid in the open with none running under rugs, over

hoods and through door openings?p p

Are the television sets placed more than 50cm away from combus-

ble materials?p p

Flammable

materials and

sources of heat

Are candles and oil lamps placed on a stable surface with measurestaken to prevent them from being knocked over easily?

p p

Are matches, lighters and sparklers kept away from heat sources and

children?p p

Are ammable liquids (e.g. cooking oil and wine) and combusble

materials kept far away from heat sources such as the stove, heat ap-pliances, lit joss scks and candles?

p p

Are cooking appliances (e.g. cooker hood) and the stove clean, free

from grease and in good working condion?p p

Are ammable liquids kept in approved containers, clearly labelledand stored in ways such that they cannot be knocked over easily?

p p

Is the LPG (Liqueed Petroleum Gas) cylinder kept in a well-venlated

area?p p

Is the supply hose connecng the LPG cylinder to the stove/gas appli-

ances in good condion, ghtly ed and without leakages?p p

Preparing your

home against

re

Is the common corridor outside the house unobstructed by discardeditems (e.g. maresses, furniture etc)?

p p

Does your house have a PSB-approved re exnguisher? p p

Do all of your family members and occupants of the house know what

number to dial in case of re or other emergencies?p p

Household Fire Safety Checklist

I you answered no to any

o the questions in the

checklist, it is recommended

that you rectiy those areas

as soon as possible to

prevent res rom occurring

in your house.

LPG


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26

FireSafety foR safe handin of iQefied petRoem as (p)

Purchase your LPG and PSB-approved accessories rom authorised dealers

Always keep gas cylinders upright; never store them horizontally

Keep the gas cylinder at least one metre away rom open fames, heat sources andelectrical outlets

Ensure that there are no naked fames nearby when changing the gas cylinder

Store no more than one spare cylinder at any time, and the spare should be kept

upright in a ventilated cabinet

Keep windows open and the kitchen well ventilated while cooking; never leave

cooking unattended or place fammable items near the fame

Turn o the gas supply at the regulator beore leaving or overseas trips

Check all gas connections regularly or leakage; there is a leakage i bubbles appear

when detergent or soap solution is applied onto the gas hose

Replace gas hoses every 2 years and gas regulators every 5 years

if o sme a as eak

Put out all fames and turn o the stove, gas valves and regulators

Open all windows and doors to ventilate the house

Call your authorised dealer to report the gas leakage immediately

if oR wok oR otheR CookwaRe CatChes fiRe

Cover it with a wet cloth and the re will be extinguished; do not pour water into it as the re will spread

Turn o the gas supply immediately

Bubbles appearingindicate gas leakagein the hose

Smoke Detectors


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27

FireSafety

In atal res, more people die rom smoke inhalation than rom burns. A smoke detector automatically emits an

alarm sound upon detection o smoke and will thus help increase your chances o surviving a re.

tips on smoke deteCtoRs

Install smoke detectors on the ceiling near sleeping areas, the

kitchen and other places where re is likely to occur

Test your smoke detectors regularly based on the manuacturers

instructions

Follow the manuacturers instructions on cleaning the smoke

detectors regularly

Ensure that smoke detectors have their batteries changed yearly

or when indicated by the device, whichever is earlier

Fire Hazards Along Common Areas


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28

FireSafety Fire hazards are anything that increase the likelihood o a re occurring. You can make your environment a saer place to live

and work in by looking out or re hazards, examples o which include:

Stacked boxes and goods along corridors, escape passageways and staircases

Discarded newspapers, urniture, cartons and other reuse

Unattended cooking along corridors and stairways

I you are an owner, operator or part o the management o shopping centres, public entertainment premises and

supermarkets, avoid exceeding the permissible occupant load o your building as too large a crowd will adversely aect

evacuation procedures during emergencies.

if o disCoveR a fiRe hazaRd

You may report it to the SCDF via the:

Fire Hazard Reporting line at 1800 280 0000

Fire Hazard Report Form available at www.scd.gov.sg

on the top right hand corner o the homepage under

Feedback

When A Fire Breaks Out


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29

FireSafety

if o disCoveR a fiRe

Do not panic

Alert others o the re by shouting

Evacuate the room/area and try to get everyone out o the

premises without endangering yoursel

I possible, close the door o the aected room to contain the re

Dial 995 or the SCDF

Turn o gas mains i you can reach them

Activate the re alarm at the nearest manual call point (pg 32)

Evacuate the building in an orderly manner via the stairs; do not

use the lit

Do not return to the building until the authorities announce that it

is sae to do so

Fight the re only i you are able to and without endangering

yoursel and others. Ways o extinguishing a re include:

Using water on burning papers, wood and abrics but never onfammable liquids such as oil, as this will cause the re to spread

Using a suitable re extinguisher (pg 30)

Using a hose reel (pg 32)

Fire Extinguishers


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30

FireSafety tpes of fiRe extinisheRs

Pull out the saety pin asinstructed on the label

aim the nozzle at the base othe re

squeeze the lever sweep the re using theextinguishers discharge

tpe effeCtive aainst fiRes invovin:

Water Combustible materials e.g. paper, cloth, wood, plastics etc; not to be used against oil res asthis will cause the re to spread

Carbon dioxide Flammable l iquids and gases and live electricity; also used to ght res involving

combustible materials

Dry chemical powder Similar to carbon dioxide extinguishers, but also eective against res involving combustible

metals e.g. sodium, potassium and magnesium

to se a fiRe extinisheR, se the p.a.s.s. method


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FireSafety

It is recommended that each household has a PSB-approved Dry Chemical Powder re extinguisher weighing

1.5kg or more. The list o authorised re extinguisher dealers and servicing workshops are listed on the SCDF

website under Building Proessionals, Fire Saety Permit and Certication, Servicing Portable Fire Extinguishers.

The SCDF is not linked to any re extinguisher distributor and does not support the door-to-door sale o

extinguishers. I you encounter one, you may wish to enquire with any o the authorised dealers in the

abovementioned list on the price o a similar extinguisher beore purchasing rom the salesperson.

I should check withlist of authorised dealers on

www. scdf.gov.sg

Manual Call Points And Hose Reels


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FireSafety In the event o a re, break the glass o the nearest manual call point to activate the re

alarm system that will sound throughout the building. This will alert all occupants o a re

and prompt them to evacuate the premises.

To put out the re, you may use a re extinguisher (pg 30) or a hose reel. For hose reels, you

will need someone to help you as they are typically best operated by two persons.

to opeRate a hose Ree

Turn on the hose reel valve in the direction shown.1

Pull the hose and run it to the re.2

Turn on the water at the nozzle and direct it at the base o

the re.

3

When activated, the manual callpoint will sound the re alarm.

Escaping Through Smoke


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FireSaf

ety

Most people die rom smoke inhalation in atal res.

if o aRe tRapped in a smoke-oed Room

Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth and avoid inhaling through the mouth

Get down, keep close to the ground and crawl towards the point o escape under the smoke

Casualty Evacuation


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34

FireSafety When stretchers are not available or cannot be improvised, you may need to transport casualties by methods such

as those listed below. You are recommended to undergo our Community Emergency Preparedness Programme

(pg 88) or a better understanding on these casualty evacuation methods. You may risk injuring yoursel and your

practice partner i you attempt the ollowing on your own.

fiRemans ift

Used or lightweight casualties. Stoop low, bend thecasualty over your shoulders and lit him up. Secure thecasualtys leg with your arm as shown or more stability.

hman CRtCh

Used when the casualty is conscious and able to walkwith some assistance. Hold him rmly around thewaist and use your shoulders to support his arm whileallowing his body weight to rest on you.


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35

FireSaf

ety

pibaCk

Used when the casualty is lightweight, conscious andable to hold on to you.

CRade

Used when the casualty is a child or a lightweight adult.Slip your arms beneath her shoulder blades and kneesto ensure that casualty will be in the most comortableposition.

y

If You Are Trapped In A Fire


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FireSafety

Enter a sae room, preerably one which has open windows,

good ventilation and overlooks a road.

1

Shut the door behind you and seal the gap beneath the doorwith a blanket, rug or other abrics to prevent smoke rom

entering the room.

2

Go to the window, shout or help to alert others o the re and

dial 995 or the SCDF i you are able to.

Stay calm and do not attempt to jump out o the building.

3

4

FIf Your Clothes Catch Fire


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FireSaf

ety

Roll over and over while covering your ace with your hands to smother the fames.

stop, dRop and Ro

Drop to the foor immediately.stop running and remain calm.1 2

3

y

If Your Car Catches Fire


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38

FireSafety when o obseRve smoke oR fames Comin fRom oR vehiCe

Slow down, signal and drive to the side o the road.1

Turn o the engine and evacuate the vehicle immediately.2

Dial 995 or help.

I there is a re extinguisher in your vehicle, you may try to put

out the re while it is still small without putting yoursel and

others in danger.

I the re grows too large, move away rom the vehicle to a sae

area and wait or the arrival o the SCDF.

Warn oncoming trac o the burning vehicle and keep

onlookers and others away rom the re.

3

4

5

6

F


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FireSafety

Though most natural occurrences and disasters (e.g. foods,

lightning storms and tsunamis) are beyond our control, we are still

able to increase our chances o survival by acquiring the necessary

knowledge and skills to ensure our saety in such emergencies.

Chpter 3

PEACETIME EMERGENCIES40 Ready Bag

42 Stockpiling

43 Lightning

44 Floods

45 Tremors

47 Landslides

49 Power outage

50 Typhoons and tropical storms

52 Tsunamis

54 Earthquakes

56 If you are trapped under debris or rubble

39

s

Ready Bag


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P

eacetimeEme

rgencies

The Ready Bag contains important items that will help you in an emergency, and

you will need to bring it along should you be required to evacuate your home.

Every member o your amily 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 Read ba shod Contain the foowin items:

essentia items sae

Torchlight without batteries In case o power outage and when evacuating in dark conditions

Batteries For powering the torchlight and radio; pack extra batteries and do not t batteriesinto the devices until needed, as leaving them there may result in leakage

Essential personal medicationFor any existing medical condition o yours and your amily, e.g. asthma, heartproblems etc.

Waterproo older containing photocopies o important

documents e.g. NRIC, passport, insurance policiesFor administrative purposes should the original documents be destroyed in the re

Civil Deence Emergency Handbook For reerence on basic rst aid and civil deence procedures

Transistor radio without batteries For tuning in to emergency broadcasts

WhistleUsed to call or help or alert others; shouting may be tiring, ineective and maycause you to inhale dangerous amounts o smoke and dust in some cases

First aid kitTo treat any injuries along the way; a small kit containing some rst aid dressing,antiseptic wipes, plasters and bandages will suce

Childcare supplies and other special care items To meet the needs o any special groups in the amily, e.g. inants

EMERGENCYHANDBOOK

P


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41

PeacetimeEmergencies

optiona items foR the Read ba inCde:

A list o personal contacts, including telephone numbers o amily members, the workplace, school etc.

Cash, preerably in small denominations

Bottled water and dry oodstu

A set o spare clothing, e.g. T-shirt and track pants

Writing materials

A list o emergency numbers, e.g. 995, 999, telephone numbers o the utility companies, insurance companies etc.

points to note on the Read ba:

You may have more than one Ready Bag, e.g. one or each

amily member; decide what is most practical or your amily

Do not pack bulky items into the Ready Bag as it may hamper

movement during an emergency

Check expiry dates o perishable items in the bag and replace

them when needed

Periodically replace batteries with resh ones as some may

leak even when unused and not placed inside devices

The Ready Bag shouldbe portable and not too

heavy or bulky.

es

Stockpiling


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P

eacetimeEmergencie

SUGAR

SUGA

RSUGAR

SUGA

R

Stocking up on essential items can help you and your loved ones survive an emergency. Routinely stock up on

items according to your needs and preerences; consume and replenish items whose expiry dates are drawing

near. The quantities should last or two weeks consumption and they will vary depending on the size o your

amily.

estimated Consmption of foodstff peR peRson foR 2 weeks

Rice and oil 3kg o rice

1 bottle o cooking oil

Canned food 14 assorted cans o vegetables, meat, sh and beans

(about 400g per can)

Dry rations 2 packets o assorted biscuits (about 210g each)

15 packets o instant noodles

Beverages

1-2 tins o milk powder (dependent on age o inant)

1 packet o sugar (500g)

1 tin o malted beverage (about 400g)

Pe

Wh h i h d i k h l i b ildi hi l d l bj

Lightning


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eacetimeEmergencies

When there is a thunderstorm in your area, seek shelter in any building or vehicle and stay away rom metal objects

and xtures or your saety.

if o aRe at home

Avoid taking a shower or bath; plumbing

and bathroom xtures can conduct

electricity

Avoid using a corded telephone unless

it is an emergency; cordless and mobile

phones are sae to use

Unplug electrical appliances, air-

conditioners and other electronic itemsincluding computers; power surges

caused by lightning can damage these

items

if o aRe in the open

Do not stay on high ground

Seek shelter in a building or vehicle;

i that is not possible, seek shelter in a

low-lying area such as a thick growth o

small trees and crouch into a ball on the

ground

Do not ride on a bicycle, motorcycle or

gol cart; i you are travelling on them,get o them as soon as possible and

seek shelter

Spread out i you are in a group

Avoid holding metal objects and

standing under tall trees or near metal

ences, pipes and rails

Avoid using the telephone, electrical

appliances and electronic equipment

Head or shore i you are in open water

es

When there is a food move to higher ground

Floods


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PeacetimeEmergencie When there is a food, move to higher ground.

if o aRe at home

Stay put, but grab your Ready Bag (pg 40) and

be prepared to evacuate immediately when

advised to do so by the authorities

I you think that it is dangerous to remain

at home, dial 999 or the Police (giving

your name and address) and evacuate

immediately, moving to higher ground away

rom open areas, streams and storm drains

Tune in to the radio or updates rom the

authorities

if o aRe in a vehiCe

Be alert to signs o fooding

Do not drive around barricades as they are

put up or your saety

I the vehicle stalls in rapidly rising waters,

abandon it immediately and try to get to

higher ground

Do not walk through moving water as a mere

15cm high o moving water can make you all;

i you must, use a stick to check the rmness

o the ground in ront o you and try to walk

in stagnant water

Dial 995 or the SCDF or 999 or the Police i

help is needed

Pe

To date tremors elt in Singapore have all been due to earthquakes in the region and there are no records o a tidal surge

Tremors


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eacetimeEmergencies

To date, tremors elt in Singapore have all been due to earthquakes in the region and there are no records o a tidal surge

aecting the island. The Meteorological Services Division, the SCDF and the Police will take immediate action should there

be indications o such ground movements posing a threat to Singapore.

if o aRe indooRs

Keep calm and stay away rom windows, display shelves,

lighting xtures or anything that may all on you and cause

injury.

1

Take cover under a sturdy table, preerably made o wood or

other strong materials.

2

When the tremors stop, get out rom under the table and

switch o all gas and electrical appliances; do not touch any

damaged electrical wiring.

Do not use matches on other naked fames as there might be

a gas leakage caused by the tremors. Dial 1800 752 1800 to

report a gas pipe leakage i you smell one.

3

4

Check your surroundings or any new cracks and otherstructural deects on building elements such as walls, columns

and beams. Evacuation is only necessary when there are visible

signs o structural deects on building elements (e.g. new

cracks).

5

I there are new cracks:

a. Call the Building & Construction Authority at 6325 7191 or

6325 7393 i you are in a non-HDB building;

b. Call the Essential Maintenance Service Unit (EMSU) serving

your area i you are in a HDB estate; the number can be

ound at your lit lobby.

6

Tune in to the radio or television or updates on the tremor

situation.

7

Avoid dialling 995 or 999 to prevent the jamming o

emergency lines; call the SCDF or Police only i there is an

emergency.

8

es

Tremors


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46

PeacetimeEmergencie if theRe is a need to evaCate

Switch o all lights and electrical appliances.1

Turn o all gas appliances and taps.2

Gather amily members together.3

Grab your Ready Bag(s).4

Lock up your house.5

Leave the building in an orderly manner via the staircases;

do not use the lits.

6

if o aRe otdooRs

Stay away rom buildings and overhead electrical cables.1

Remain in the open until the tremors stop.2

I you are driving, stop as soon as saety permits and

remain in your vehicle. Avoid stopping near trees,

buildings, bridges, overpasses or overhead electrical

cables.

3

Pe

Landslides are typically preceded by irregularities in slope prole Should you notice any signs o slope

Landslides


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eacetimeEmergencies

sins of sope faiRe

New cracks in and bulging or misalignment o the earth

Tilted trees, ences and utility poles along slopes

Accumulation o water behind retaining walls or new locations o water

breaking through the ground surace

Erosion or washing away o vegetation and top soil on the slope

Upheaval o ground at or near the bottom o the slope

when a andside oCCRs and debRis fows

I it is sae to do so, turn o gas, electricity and water

supplies as they may cause additional damage

Inorm your neighbours

Grab your Ready Bag(s) and evacuate immediately i saety

permits; move out o the path o the landslide

I you are driving, be especially alert and look out or

collapsed pavement, mud, allen rocks and other signs o a

possible debris fow

I you or others are trapped, dial 995 or the SCDF i possible

and tune in to the radio or television or updates on the

landslide situation

Wait or rescue and stay calm and alert

Landslides are typically preceded by irregularities in slope prole. Should you notice any signs o slope

ailure listed below, it is recommended that you engage a proessional engineer to inspect, assess and

recommend solutions to rectiy the problem.

es

afteR a andside

Landslides


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48

PeacetimeEmergenci

Stay away rom the aected area, building structures and electrical cables as there may be more landslides

Direct rescuers to the locations o injured and trapped persons near the aected area; do not enter the hazard area

Dial 995 or the SCDF or 999 or the Police to report any emergencies

Seek clearance and ollow instructions rom relevant authorities beore returning to aected houses

Report structural deects to the:

Building & Construction Authority at 6325 7191 or 6325 7393 or non-HDB buildings

Essential Maintenance Service Unit or HDB blocks; the telephone number can be ound at the HDB blocks lit lobby

Tune in to the radio or television or updates on the situation

Replant damaged ground as soon as possible to reduce the risk o fash foods and recurring landslides

Pe

It is recommended that you pack a torchlight, radio and spare batteries in your Ready Bag (pg 40)

Power Outage


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acetim

eEmergencie

s

y p g p y y g pg

in case o power outages. Matches and candles are not advisable as they may be dicult to handle

without adequate lighting. The Ready Bag will thereore need to be stored somewhere easy to reach

even in the dark.

when a poweR otae oCCRs

Retrieve your Ready Bag, turn on the torchlight and tune in to the

radio or updates on the situation

I people are trapped in the lit during a power outage:

Do not dial 995 or 999 unless there is a lie-threatening situation or aneed or emergency ambulance services

Call the Essential Maintenance Service Unit or help (the telephonenumber can be ound outside the lit at HDB buildings); do not attemptto rescue the people yoursel

For condominiums and non-HDB buildings, call the management oce

I you are trapped in the lit, stay calm, press the alarm button and

wait or help to arrive; do not attempt to orce open the lit doors

I you are on the road and the street lights go o, keep your

headlights turned on at all times and drive slowly

ies

Avoid travelling overseas during the typhoon season o your destination country i it has one It is recommended that

Typhoons And Tropical StormsTyphoons And Tropical Storms


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PeacetimeEmergenc Avoid travelling overseas during the typhoon season o your destination country, i it has one. It is recommended that

you keep yoursel updated on the countrys weather watch to avoid being caught in a typhoon or tropical storm while

outdoors. You might also wish to stock up on ood and water in the event that you are trapped indoors due to a storm.

when a tphoon oR tRopiCa stoRm stRikes in oR aRea

Evacuate i directed by local authorities; otherwise, seekshelter indoors immediately

Secure or move outdoor items such as toys, bicycles,

potted plants and heavy objects into the apartment and

away rom the windows

Close all doors and windows; draw the curtains across

windows to minimise glass ragments rom fying in should

the windows shatter

I a window breaks, place a mattress against the broken

pane and push a piece o heavy urniture against it

Pea


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acetim

eEmergencie

s

Get hold o a torchlight and a rst aid kit to prepare or any

possible power outage and injuries cause by the storm

Set your reezer to its lowest temperature to minimise ood

spoilage in the event the power supply is cut o

Tune in to a portable radio or updates on the situation

I possible, check or re, electrical and gas hazards (pg 25)within the apartment during the storm

I the storm gets severe, move to an 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 ater a short period o

calm

When the storm is declared to be over, check or broken glass,allen trees, broken power cables and other hazards in your

area

Dial or the areas emergency ambulance i there are cases o

severe injury

cies

Most tsunamis are caused by earthquakes in the sea that induce movements in the sea foor. The risk o

Si b i t d di tl b t i i l d t th t ti id d b di

Tsunamis


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52

PeacetimeEmergenc Singapore being aected directly by a tsunami is very low due to the protection provided by surrounding

landmasses such as Peninsular Malaysia in the north and Borneo in the east. Nonetheless, Singapore

has established a seismic monitoring system since the mid 1990s and this system is managed by the

Meteorological Services Division.

waRnin sins of an inComin tsnami

Tremors and ground movements at the beach or near the ocean

Sudden receding o the shoreline and sea level, sometimes by a k ilometre or more

Pea


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53

acetim

eEmergencie

s

if o enConteR a tsnami

Once you experience either or both warning signs o an incoming

tsunami, run to higher ground immediately; do not approach the

beach to investigate or wait or the tsunami warning to be given

I you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately

Do not stay in low-rise buildings in the coastal area i a tsunami

warning is activated

Move inland quickly to higher ground; i there is no time or that, seek

reuge in the upper foors o high-rise, reinorced concrete buildings

I you are on a boat or similar vessel that is ar rom shore, move it out

to deeper waters; i you are near the pier, it may be saer to leave the

vessel there and move to higher ground

Do not assume that it will be sae to go out into the open ater the rst

wave as there may be subsequent waves

cies

During earthquakes, most injuries occur when people attempt to leave or move around buildings while the earth is

still shaking In act collapsing walls fying glass and alling objects are the greatest causes o injury and death during

Earthquakes


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PeacetimeEmergenc still shaking. In act, collapsing walls, fying glass and alling objects are the greatest causes o injury and death during

earthquakes. While Singapore does not experience earthquakes, it is important that you ollow the guidelines below to

increase your chances o survival should you encounter an earthquake overseas.

if o aRe indooRs

When the shaking starts, drop to the ground

and take cover under a sturdy table or urniture

immediately; hold on until the shaking is over

I no urniture is available to serve as shelter, move

to a sae place nearby (e.g. an inside corner o a

building or an interior wall away rom windows,

mounted shelves or anything that can all and hurt

you) and crouch down while covering your ace andhead with your arms

Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure

that it is sae to exit; i you must leave the building

ater the shaking stops, do not use the lits in case o

atershocks, power outage or other damages

if o aRe otdooRs Minimise your movement and stay away rom

buildings, street lights and utility wires

Stay put in the open until the shaking stops

I you are driving:

Stop as soon as saety permits and away rom

buildings, trees, overhead bridges and electrical

cables

Stay in the vehicle and tune in to the radio or

situation updates

8

Crouch down in asafe place whilecovering your face

and head.

Do not use thelifts as they maymalfunction due to

aftershocks.

Pea


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acetim

eEmergencie

s

when the eaRthQake has stopped

Expect atershocks any time rom the next ew hours to even months ater the

initial shockwave; each time you eel one, crouch down beside a sae interior

wall or at an inside corner and cover your ace and head with your arms

Do a quick check in your area or damage and get everyone to evacuate i

there are visible structural deects

Help injured and trapped people, i any, and dial the local emergency services

number to render assistance and direct rescuers to them

I possible, turn o the gas and electrical mains and be alert to smells o gas

leakage, spilled chemicals and fammable liquids

Look out or signs o re; put out small res i possible

Beware o allen power lines or broken gas pipes and stay out o damaged

areas and buildings

Tune in to the radio or updates

Do not move around while theearth is still shaking.

cies

to enhanCe oR Rate of sRviva:

If You Are Trapped Under Debris Or Rubble


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PeacetimeEm

ergenc

Crawl under a sturdy piece o urniture (e.g. a desk or

bed) which will provide you with breathing space and

protection against alling objects; i that is not possible,brace yoursel against an interior wall devoid o glass

windows or mounted shelves and try to use blankets,

boxes and other similar materials or protection against

glass ragments and light debris

I possible, move away rom unstable areas and objects,

and put on a pair o sturdy shoes to protect your eet

rom broken glass

Stay put i you are in a sae area; do not attempt to use

the stairs or elevators as you will be exposing yoursel to

dangers such as alling debris, damaged stairways and

power outages in elevators

Do not turn on light switches or light matches, res and

gas stoves unless you are sure that there are no gas leaks

Be calm, alert and responsive to calls rom the rescuers

Do not shout unnecessarily as you may inhale dangerous

amounts o dust while weakening yoursel

I possible, use a whistle, torchlight or tap on a pipe or

wall to attract the rescuers attention

I you are pinned down by debris, periodically move

your ngers and toes to promote blood circulation and

prevent blood clots

Keep your spirits high by thinking o your loved ones

Consume ood and water rom the rerigerator i it is nearyou; look out or shattered glass and other debris i you

need to eat and drink rom an open source among the

debris

Peac


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cetim

eEmergencie

s

Chpter 4

WARTIME EMERGENCIES58 Rationing and blood donation

60 Public Warning System (PWS)

62 Shelter protection66 Defensive precautions

57When disasters strike, our daily lives 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 obtainbasic supplies so that lie can carry on as normally as possible.

Your chances o survival, however, may be greatly aected i you

are unamiliar 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.

ncies

wateR Rationin

Rationing And Blood Donation


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58

WartimeEm

ergen 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.

You will rst receive a Registration Notice (or ood

coupons) and, i applicable, a Notication Card (or uel

coupons).

1

Bring the Registration Notice or Notication Card and

your amilys identication documents (e.g. NRIC or bir th

certicates) to your designated centre(s) to collect your

coupons.

2

Use the coupons to purchase rationed ood items oruel rom licensed retailers. Beore using the ood coupons,

you will need to ll in the names and

NRIC numbers o every member in

your household on each coupon.

3

food and fe Rationin

To obtain and use your ood and uel ration coupons:

Wart

bood donation

l d l ll d d d d d h l


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59

time

Emergencies

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 orth and donate blood i you are able to.

When you hear the appeal to give blood during wartime, bring along your NRIC to the nearest

blood donation centre or registration and a medical proessional will attend to you.

ncies

The Public Warning System (PWS) is a network o sirens placed by the SCDF at

strategic points across Singapore to warn the public o imminent threats that

d li d t Th PWS ill b d t th bli

Public Warning System


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WartimeEm

ergen may endanger lives and property. The PWS will be used to warn the public o

military attacks and disasters, both natural and man-made. The table below

shows the dierent signals and what you should do when you hear them.

note:

To listen to an audio recording o the various PWS signals, log on to www.scd.gov.sg under Community & Volunteers,

Learn Civil Deence, Wartime Emergencies, Public Warning System or dial 1800 367 7233

The Important Message signal is sounded at 1205hrs on the 15th o February and 15th o September each year in observation

o Total Deence Day and Civil Deence Day respectively; when you hear the signal, please tune in to the local FM radio stations

or an important broadcast rom the SCDF

sina how it sonds sitation what o need to do

Alarm Wailing blastsAn air raid or danger is

approachingMove to a shelter immediately

All Clear Continuous blasts The threat is over Leave the shelter in an orderly manner

Important Message Pulsating blastsAn important broadcast will

be aired via the radio

Tune in to any local FM radio station

immediately

Wart

There are three basic types o Civil Deence shelters.

hosehod and stoRe sheteRs

Shelter Protection


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61

ime

Emergencies

hosehod and stoRe sheteRs

Household Shelters reer to those inside individual dwelling units, e.g. HDB fats, while Storey Shelters are

larger versions o Household Shelters and they are located in a common area on every storey. During a wartime

emergency, the SCDF will inorm residents to prepare their Household Shelters or occupation by:

Removing all temporary xtures and shelves inside the shelter.

Turning o all gas and water supplies beore heading to the shelter.

Bringing in your Ready Bag(s) and items such as water and oodor your stay in the shelter.

Closing and sealing the two ventilation openings (see next page).

Equipping the shelter with a telephone, television and radio.

3

4

5

2

1

EMERGENCYHANDBOOK

ncies

onCe the sheteR is pRepaRed

Shelter ProtectionShelter Protection


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WartimeEm

ergen

Move quickly and calmly into the shelter and close the door.

Sit away rom the door and walls o the shelter and do not leanon them.

Tune in to the radio or important messages issued by the SCDF;you can leave the shelter once the All Clear signal is sounded(pg 60).

3

2

1

WATER

WATER

Warti

ventiation openins


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63

me

Emergencies

Aside rom the lighting, power, telephone and television/radio

points provided in the Household and Storey Shelters, there are

two ventilation openings in the shelter wall(s).

dRin peaCetime

Leave at least 25% o the ventilation opening uncovered in case

anyone gets trapped inside the shelter

dRin a waRtime emeRenC

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 amily rom inhaling

contaminants rom the outside

With both ventilation openings closed tightly, you can stay inside the

shelter or several hours; the actual duration o stay will depend on

actors such as the number o people in the shelter as well as their

age, gender and physical condition

Should there be a need or you to lengthen your stay or

accommodate more people in the shelter, the SCDF will inorm you to

ax specied equipment to the opening to improve ventilation

ncies

pbiC sheteRs

Public Shelters are built in places such as underground Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

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WartimeEm

erge

Shelter

ub c S e te s a e bu t p aces suc as u de g ou d ass ap d a s t ( )

stations, HDB void decks, schools, community centres and government buildings.

To identiy a public shelter, look out or the Civil Deence shelter sign. The list o

Public Shelters and their locations is available on www.scd.gov.sg under Building

Proessionals, CD Shelter.

Move ast towards your nearest Public Shelter but do not push;i you are in a vehicle, park it at the side o the road, lock up andhead or the nearest shelter.

I you are unable to nd a Public Shelter within a ew minutes aterthe Alarm signal has sounded, you may seek shelter in a tunnel,underpass, underground basement, ditch, drain culvert or even anopen drain.

Follow directions given by SCDF personnel.

I you are with your amily, move as a unit to avoid anxiety andhelp the handicapped, children and the aged.

1

2

3

Do not bring bulky items and fammable substances into theshelter.

5

4

when o aRe not at home and o heaR the aaRm sina (pg 60)

Wartim

onCe inside the pbiC sheteR

1


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me

Emergencies

Move in towards the centre o the shelter and do not block theentrances and passageways.

Stay together as a group and do not wander around.

Do not start a re to cook meals.

Keep quiet and listen to the radio and television announcementsmade by the SCDF.

Inorm SCDF personnel i you encounter any problems.

1

2

3

4

5

Leave the shelter only when directed by the authorities.

Move as a amily unit.

Be patient; do not push and rush.

1

2

3

eavin the pbiC sheteR

encies

pReventin damae

Defensive Precautions


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WartimeEm

erge Although we cannot prevent the use o 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:

Reinorcing all glass suraces with tape to reduce shattering

Removing all objects hanging on walls and sitting on

balconies and windowsills

baCkot measRes

While a total blackout cannot prevent enemy air raids orshelling, it can reduce the enemys ability to identiy and

pinpoint targets. Blackout measures include:

Switching o all exterior lights

Covering all outlets o interior light such as windows and

doors with curtains

Covering vehicle headlights with black tape while leaving only

a small area exposed

Wartim


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me

Emergencies

Following the September 11 attacks, the possibility o 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 thereore essential in our ght against terrorism.

Chpter 5

TERRORISM68 Chemical threats

71 Biological threats

74 Anthrax75 Bomb threats

78 In the event of an explosion

79 Evacuating from an explosion site

80 Dirty bomb threats

82 In-place Protection

85 Decontamination procedures

86 Public transport security

67

rorism A chemical agent attack is the deliberate release o 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

Chemical Threats


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Terr choking agents.

sins of a possibe ChemiCa aent attaCk

Many people in the same area displaying symptoms such as:

Watery eyes or dim vision

Headaches or giddiness

Shortness o breath

Dryness o throat, coughing or extreme irritation to therespiratory tract

Nausea or vomiting

Salivation

Chest tightness

Redness o skin with severe pain and ormation o blisters uponcontact

Muscle twitching, seizures or convulsions

Incontinence

Unconsciousness

Three or more people collapsing or no apparent reason

Many sick or dead birds and small animals in the aected area

Terrori

in the event of a ChemiCa aent attaCk


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sm

I possible, quickly determine the areas aected or where the

chemical release is coming rom

I 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)

I the attack occurs outdoors and you are in the open, cover

your mouth and nose with a cloth and move away rom the

aected area(s)

Seek shelter as soon as possible and perorm In-Place

Protection (pg 82); do not walk into the wind as it may carryalong the hazardous chemicals

I you are in your vehicle when the attack occurs, head to

your home, oce or public building immediately i they are

very nearby; otherwise, perorm In-Place Protection in your

vehicle (pg 84)

Do not leave the saety o the shelter to help others until the

authorities say that it is sae to do so

rrorism

Chemical Threats

if o have been exposed to a ChemiCa aent

I you experience any abnormal symptoms such as those listed on pg 60, you may

have been exposed to a chemical agent You should then head to the nearest


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70

Ter

if o sspeCt that someone has been exposed to a ChemiCa aent

Do not attempt to administer rst aid on the aected person; you may be aected by the chemical and become a casualty too

Stay away rom the aected area and dial 995 or the SCDF

have been exposed to a chemical agent. You should then head to the nearest

decontamination acility (pg 85). I that is not possible:

Look or the nearest water source.1

Strip immediately and cut o contaminated clothing which isnormally removed over the head to avoid contact with youreyes, nose and mouth. Tie up the contaminated clothes in abag, i available, or proper disposal later on as instructed by theauthorities.

2

Rinse yoursel thoroughly; use soap i it is available.3

Seek immediate medical assistance i possible.

Dial 995 or the SCDF, inorming them that you may have beenexposed to a chemical agent and your location.

Stay calm and await assistance rom the SCDF.

4

5

6

Terroris

A biological agent attack is the deliberate release o biological agents in the orm o living

microorganisms and biological toxins to kill or incapacitate people. Such agents can be released into the

environment by aerosol sprays, ood and water contamination and inected organisms like mosquitoes

d t S bi l i l t t i ( ll )

Biological Threats


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smand rats. Some biological agents are contagious (e.g. smallpox).

sins of a possibe biooiCa aent attaCk

A biological agent attack may not be immediately obvious as there is an incubation period during

which the eects o the agent(s) are not observable. You will thus need to look out or:

Unusual powdery or gel-like substances and suspicious articles

Reports on trends o unusual illnesses in the community

Waves o ill people seeking emergency medical attention

rrorism in the event of a biooiCa aent attaCk

Due to the latent eects o biological agents, it takes time

to identiy and conrm a biological agent attack As a

Biological ThreatsBiological Threats


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Ter

Anti-bacterialHandsoap

HandSanitizer

to identiy and conrm a biological agent attack. As a

result, public health ocials may not be able to provide

inormation on immediate actions to take against a

biological agent attack. It is recommended that you takethe ollowing precautions:

Practise good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid the spreading

o germs

Monitor the news closely or urther inormation on the

symptoms o the biological agent(s) and where to seek

emergency medical care i you are aected

Do not assume that any illness or symptom is due to thedeclared biological emergency as many common illnesses

have similar symptoms; you are advised to seek medical

advice i you are unsure

Terroris

if o have been exposed to a biooiCa aent

You may not suer rom any obvious symptoms, but you

should quickly identiy where the suspected biological


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smshould quickly identiy where the suspected biological

release is, i possible, and move away immediately

Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth while movingaway rom the source area

I you are indoors, inorm the building management and dial

999 to report to the Police that you have been exposed to a

biological agent; leave your contact inormation 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 o clothing; tie up

the contaminated clothes in a bag or proper disposal as

instructed by the authorities

I you or a amily member becomes ill, seek medical advice at

the hospital(s) indicated by the authorities

if o think someone has been exposed to a biooiCa aent

You may help the casualty i you have adequate respiratory protection (e.g. an N-95 mask); otherwise,

keep a distance rom the person and avoid direct contact

Dial 995 or help rom the SCDF or 999 or the Police

rrorism Anthrax is a disease caused by bacteria and its powdery orm, though not contagious, is a threat to public

saety. In Singapore, the SCDF, Police, Ministry o Health and Singapore Post have taken precautionary

measures to deal with this threat.

Anthrax


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Te

if o sspeCt that an aRtiCe Contains anthRax

Dial 995 or 999 or help rom the SCDF or the Police respectively; inorm the security

personnel and/or management i you are in a building

Do not handle the article directly, sni the article or its exposed

contents, or attempt to clean up the spilled contents, i any

I 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

Turn o all local ans or ventilation units in the aected area

Leave the room and close the door or block o the area to prevent

others rom entering

Head to the nearest toilet or washing point and wash your hands

and any exposed skin with soap and water

Prepare a list o names and contact numbers o all persons who

were in the vicinity o the suspicious article and hand the list over

to the Police or ollow-up investigations

At the earliest opportunity, remove all clothing (see pg 70, Step 2),shower thoroughly with soap and water and change into a new set

o clothing; do not use bleach or other strong disinectants on your

skin

Clothing that may have been exposed to anthrax should be sealed

in a plastic bag and disposed o properly according to guidelines

given by the authorities

Terroris

if o see a sspiCios aRtiCe oR an nexpoded bomb

Bomb Threats


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sm

Dial 999 immediately and report it to the Police; provide details

such as the shape, size, colour and location o the suspectedbomb.

Do not touch or move the suspected bomb.

Move away rom it and warn people in the area to stay away romthe suspected bomb.

For evacuation procedures, reer to pg 79.

1

2

3

4

errorism if o ReCeive a bomb thReat oveR the teephone

Stay calm and i possible, signal or someone nearby to dial 999 to1

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Te y p , g ymake a Police report and another person to inorm the building

management sta immediately.

Keep the caller talking or as long as possible to buy time and try to jotdown the exact words used by the caller in the threat.

Try nding out rom the caller:

When the bomb will explode

Where the bomb is placed

What type o bomb it is and how it looks like

What will trigger the bomb to explode

I he/she planted the bomb himsel/hersel and why

What message the caller is trying to convey and to whom

His/her name and current location

Take note o how the caller sounds, e.g.:

Callers vocal characteristics, e.g. voice o a man, woman or child,possible age etc.

Language used and accent

Articulation, e.g. caller speaks fuently or stutters

Tone o voice, e.g. emotional, angry or calm Background noises, e.g. sounds o trac, music, announcements

etc.

Do not antagonise or taunt the caller in any way.

Do not spread rumours.

3

2

4

5

6

TerrorismIt may be a bomb i it has:

1

if o ReCeive a sspiCios etteR oR paRCe


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m

Do not try to open the letter or parcel i you suspect it to contain explosives; mostbombs are designed to detonate when the outer wrapping is torn or cut open.

I you are unsure o its origin and you have reason to suspect it to be a bomb,report it to the Police immediately by dialling 999.

Place the suspected letter or parcel bomb in a corner o a room away rom thewindows.

Evacuate the room, and the building i necessary, while leaving all doors andwindows open to mitigate the eects o shattering glass should the bombexplode.

Inorm the building management and security personnel, providing clear detailson the location o the letter or parcel bomb.

Await urther instructions rom the authorities.

2

3

4

5

6

7

Excessive postage despite its weight

Been overly secured with string or adhesive tape

An odd shape, size or rigid eel

Oily stains or discolouration on the wrapping material

An unusual odour that smells like almonds

Metal contents whereby gently shaking the article produces metallic sounds

Wires or aluminum oil sticking out rom the article

Unamiliar handwriting

Only the recipients name on it or restrictive markings such as Personal,Condential and To be opened by addressee only

errorism if o aRe hRt:

Do not use your mobile phone to call or help as it maytriggersecondary explosions

1

In The Event Of An Explosion


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Te

I you are not in the aected area, stay away rom the explosion site and do not dial 995 or 999 unless you

encounter an emergency; tune in to the radio or television or updates

Ater an explosion, beware o post-blast hazards such as:

Damaged structures, walls, beams, columns and overhanging slabs

Craters in the ground

Sharp debris and broken glass

Smoke, res and toxic umes

Water and gas leakages due to damaged utility pipes and exposed live electrical cables

Potential secondary bomb devices

Ensure your own saety beore helping others

I saety permits and you are a trained rst-aider, treat casualties where they are until the arrival o

emergency responders

I you are not trained in rst aid, move away rom the hazard area; note the locations o severely injured

casualties and inorm rescuers to attend to them

trigger secondary explosions.

I you are able to evacuate, move away rom the aectedarea. I you are trapped, reer to pg 56.

Do not move unnecessarily as you may worsen your injuries.

2

3

Do not use your mobile phone near abomb threat or explosion site.

Terrorism

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 malunction; use the stairs but do

not keep the doors propped open as that will allow more smoke to enter

Evacuating From An Explosion Site


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mnot 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 or emergency vehicles and rescuers

while looking out or them

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 sae

Do not spread rumours about the situation

Do not enter a building whose structure has been damaged by the

explosion

Leave the area and disperse as quickly as possible in case o secondary

attacks; i the attack occured at your workplace, you may explore

alternative means o accounting or your sta, colleagues, tenants and

clients

Do not obstruct roads and walkwayswhile evacuating. Make way foremergency vehicles and rescuers.

Do not enter a building that has beendamaged by an explosion.

Terrorism Dirty bombs use conventional explosives spiked with radioactive materials. Once

detonated, harmul radioactive materials are dispersed into the air, resulting in radiological

contamination over a wide area.

effeCts of Radiation

Dirty Bomb Threats


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Te

effeCts of Radiation

Depending on the extent o exposure to radiation, eects can range rom none to radiationsickness such as nausea, vomiting, infammation o 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.

possibe sins of a diRt bomb attaCk

A dirty bomb explosion sounds and looks like a conventional explosion, and

casualties o such explosions are likely to suer rom blast injuries which include

burns and shrapnel wounds

Specialised equipment are required to detect the presence o radioactive material

in a dirty bomb attack; otherwise, it is almost impossible to dierentiate it rom

conventional bomb blasts

Terrorism

in the event of a diRt bomb attaCk

I you are outside and the explosion/radiation occurs nearby:

Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth and move away rom thehazard area


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mhazard area

Do not walk into the wind as it may carry radioactive particles

I you are indoors and the explosion/radiation occurs near the building:

Check i any wal

emergency handbook 2010 english edition

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