Puttur: A disaster-management training programme under the NDRF Youth Lifeline – Student BLS Mission was organised at the SJM Hall of St. Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, on Saturday.
The programme was organised by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Dakshina Kannada, in association with the 3/19 Karnataka Battalion NCC, 5 Karnataka Naval NCC, NSS, Rovers-Rangers, Youth Red Cross, Students’ Council and IQAC of the college.
Vice-Principal Dr Vijayakumar Moleyar, who presided over the programme, appreciated the NDRF personnel for risking their lives to save hundreds of people during disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes and building collapses. He said the NDRF personnel were “true heroes” not merely for their rescue operations but also for creating awareness among students and young people about disaster management.
Resource person and Dakshina Kannada district disaster-management in-charge, Assistant Sub-Inspector Bhankar Avinash, said disasters could occur anywhere and at any time, but preparedness among students could help reduce casualties. He emphasised the importance of disaster preparedness, emergency response and life-saving skills, particularly during the ‘golden hour’ before medical assistance arrives.
“If young people join hands, a disaster-resilient society can be built. One right decision can become a guiding light for a hundred people,” he said.
Captain Johnson David Sequeira, NCC Army Officer; Sub-Lieutenant Thejaswi Bhat K., NCC Naval Officer; Dr Edwin S. D’Souza, IQAC Coordinator; Dr Dimple Jennifer Fernandes, Youth Red Cross Coordinator; Khalandar Shareef, Rover Leader; and Spearl Fiona Pereira, Student Welfare Officer, were present.
MSW Coordinator Srimani welcomed the gathering, while NSS Programme Officer Prof.Dr K. Chandrashekar proposed the vote of thanks. Fatima Nida compered the programme.
The students were given practical demonstrations on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), methods of controlling bleeding, the Heimlich manoeuvre for choking and first aid for burn injuries.