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Here’s how we celebrated Singapore World Water Day 2024 at HomeTeamNS

Our clubhouses blended learning about water conservation with a splash-tastic fun time. 

TEXT: GLENDA LIM

PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS

Singapore World Water Day (SWWD) is celebrated every March to underscore the nation’s commitment to protecting our scarce water supply for a sustainable future and — quite literally — the adage that every drop counts.

As a long-standing partner of the Public Utilities Board (PUB), Singapore’s National Water Agency, HomeTeamNS organised various entertaining and educational activities at each of our clubhouses to deepen the understanding of water conservation among members and their families. These included water conservation challenges and up-close-and-personal encounters with PUB’s Water Wally and Sally mascots.

Here is a recap of all the fun that happened at this year’s Singapore World Water Day celebrations: 

YOUNG WATER ADVENTURERS TOOK A DIP ‘N SPLASH

Getting hands-on experience is key to enriching learning and that was exactly what SkillFest offered. HomeTeamNS’ signature school holiday programme was held this year at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir and attended by 74 participants. Our Aqua Adventure indoor water park was the perfect venue for an all-access fun day where young participants put on their scientist caps and learnt about the importance of water and its properties through cognitively-stimulating science experiments.

Returning for its second edition, Dip ‘N Splash 2.0 saw an enthusiastic crowd of over 400 guests enjoying the ultimate pool party while taking in the sights of the ‘Waterfront Haven’.  It was a joyful and memorable experience for the whole family, as participants were greeted with carnival games and food booths, a bouncy castle, as well as fun pool installations, including water obstacle course inflatables, paddle boats, pool floats, and more.

INSPIRING CHANGE ONE DROP AT A TIME

In today’s world rife with viral challenges on social media, HomeTeamNS championed the “Save Water Challenge” during SWWD. A total of 2,553 participants were present for HomeTeamNS Khatib’s enriching Empower Bloom campaign, which reminded everyone that we can all play a part in the long run for water sustainability. One of the main highlights — which emphasised on the importance that every drop of water counts — saw participants attempting to transfer ‘rainwater’ from trough to trough without spillage while on a paper runway.

A WATER-FUL TIME WITH FAMILIES

It was a water conservation week to remember at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok: Step into the lobby and you would have been greeted with activities for all ages to enjoy. About 800 guests put their colouring skills to the test, worked out their brains with puzzles, and interacted with educational exhibition panels that raised awareness on SWWD, as well as provided tips to create a more sustainable future.

Inspiring change and protecting our precious water resources start from young. Over at T-Play, HomeTeamNS’ interactive transportation-themed children’s indoor playground, parents and their kids had a family-fun time with arts and crafts. Each participation was entitled to a redemption of PUB merchandise.

FUN WITH WATERCOLOURS

HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier transformed into a bustling hotspot of activity where 151 guests participated in various engaging activities. These included watercolour painting and water conservation games for a chance to win PUB merchandise. Guests were also treated to popcorn and cotton candy, and were given free access to the pool, which housed water float installations.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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In The Force Featured

The urban dweller’s emergency survival guide

When you’re in need of rescue, what should you do to give yourself the best chances of survival? Let WO1 Md Fadly Bin Ismail, a Rescue Section Commander from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF)’s Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (DART), advise you on how to navigate various urban crises.

TEXT: MELODY TAN

IMAGES:  SINGAPORE CIVIL DEFENCE FORCE, SHUTTERSTOCK

It’s just a routine day at work or home – until something happens, and you find yourself trapped, injured or unable to move.

That was the case for a man who fell four metres into a factory’s sprinkler pump room in November last year, when he was conducting maintenance work. A SCDF paramedic climbed down a cat ladder with four other SCDF officers to reach and stabilise him, before he was attached to a Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (DART) officer and lifted out of the room.

We speak to WO1 Md Fadly Bin Ismail, a Rescue Section Commander with DART, to find out what you can do to minimise rescue complications and ensure the best chances of survival, should you ever find yourself stuck in a malfunctioning elevator or at the bottom of a manhole.

WO1 Fadly (right) discussing the safety measures with a colleague before the commencement of a cable car rescue exercise.

SCENARIO 1: STUCK IN A FAULTY LIFT

Forget all the movie scenes where people pry open elevator doors with their bare hands – that’s a no-no, according to WO1 Fadly.

Instead, stay calm and refer to the information panel beside the lift buttons for contact details of the Town Councils’ Essential Maintenance Service Units (EMSU) or the building management.

“Contacting them should be your first move, since their lift technicians will have access to the lift motor room and are professionally trained to handle lift failures and rescues. Press the emergency call button for assistance and ring the emergency bell periodically to seek help,” said WO1 Fadly.

The lift may get hot and stuffy if the air-conditioning isn’t working. Remember to regulate your breathing and conserve your energy. He added: “If there’s a medical emergency – such as someone in the lift fainting, having difficulty breathing, or suffering from cardiac arrest or trauma injuries – call 995 and follow any instructions given.” 

SCENARIO 2: FALLING INTO THE GAP BETWEEN TRAIN AND PLATFORM

In a situation like this, it’s likely that you’ll be surrounded by bystanders. Quickly attract attention by shouting for help, then prompt someone to press the emergency stop buttons located at the train platforms. There are also emergency communication buttons within the train cabins, which can be used to alert the station staff and stop the train from moving.

WO1 Fadly advised: “If it’s safe to do so, gently adjust your position to free any trapped limb. Don’t try to yank it out forcefully – you could injure yourself further.”

If onlookers are clustered around you, request that they give you some breathing space. The station staff will also help disperse the crowd and guide you until emergency services arrive. Stay calm and cooperative; help is on the way.

SCENARIO 3: FALLING INTO A MANHOLE

If you’re conscious after falling into a manhole, stay put and avoid moving your head in case you end up aggravating any injuries, such as damage to your spine. “Only move if you’re facing immediate danger, such as drowning or chemical exposure, and resist the urge to explore the tunnel,” he emphasised.

If you have your phone and can access mobile service, dial 995 and shout for assistance from anyone nearby. Remain calm, breathe steadily, and conserve energy as you await rescue.

SCENARIO 4: TRAPPED IN ROOM DURING A FIRE

In the event of a fire, thick smoke may severely limit visibility. “It is therefore crucial to familiarise yourself with your building’s evacuation routes beforehand and ensure these paths are unobstructed,” said WO1 Fadly. Too much clutter can prevent escape, and even constitute a fire hazard.

Upon detecting a fire, quickly assess your surroundings for the safest exit, guided by any available escape signs. If trapped, dial 995 or use a manual call point to alert the authorities, specifying your location. Close the door of the affected room to keep the fire contained.

If it’s safe to do so, you can try extinguishing a small fire – but remember that oil-based fires should be smothered, not doused in water. Here are other methods on how to extinguish fires of different origins.

He added: “If you’re trapped in a smoke-logged room, use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth, stay low and crawl beneath the smoke towards an escape. Should evacuation be impossible, seal the room to prevent smoke from entering, stay low, regulate your breathing and conserve your energy until help arrives.”

Leave your belongings behind when evacuating and use the stairs – not the lift – as you don’t want to run the risk of being trapped. For those who live or work in a high-rise building that’s over 40 storeys, head towards the refuge floor labelled Fire Emergency Holding Area if you can’t make it to the ground floor easily. Do not re-enter the building until it’s declared safe by the authorities. Even if the fire appears to have been put out, the building may have suffered structural damage.

For more guidelines on how to survive a fire, refer to the SCDF Emergency Handbook.

SCENARIO 5: IMMOBILISED IN A CAR ACCIDENT

Last year saw a 26% increase in fatal road accidents and a 2.4% rise in injuries from 2022. If you find yourself unfortunate enough to be part of these statistics, but lucky enough to be conscious and alive, start by evaluating your condition and checking on other passengers in the car.

If you can do so safely, switch off the ignition, engage the handbrake and activate your hazard lights. Dial 995, especially if passengers are unaccounted for. In remote areas, use your car horn periodically to draw attention and assistance.

“Avoid forcibly freeing any body parts that are trapped, unless there is immediate danger to your life (like the car being on fire). Similarly, bystanders should not try to extricate you unless absolutely necessary,” said WO1 Fadly.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER SOMEONE TRAPPED OR INJURED

The first thing you should do, according to WO1 Fadly, is to stay calm, assess the situation and prioritise your own safety. After which, check if the person is responsive by gently tapping their shoulder, for example.

He added: “Eliminate nearby hazards safely, such as switching off machinery or engaging a car’s handbrake. Immediately call 995 and provide detailed information about the incident. If you’re trained in first aid, offer help by reassuring the victim, managing shock, controlling bleeding or stabilising their spine. Mobilise other bystanders to fetch necessary equipment, like an automated external defibrillator (AED), if required.”

Refrain from moving someone who’s trapped to avoid worsening injuries or causing paralysis. If you have no medical training, focus on other useful actions such as providing shelter, directing traffic or contacting the person’s family. Always introduce yourself when approaching to avoid startling the person, and don’t offer any food or water to prevent choking risks.

When emergency services arrive, share essential details like the number of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) cycles given or AED shocks administered. These simple measures can be the difference that helps save a life.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Shape Up Featured

Debunking the myths: Why regular health screenings are essential

Take charge of your health for better outcomes and greater peace of mind.

TEXT: MELODY TAN

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

With health screenings come the fear of unknown outcomes, which is likened to the anxiety of waiting for exam grades without being fully prepared. But evading screenings doesn’t alter the state of your health — it simply delays the acknowledgement of any underlying issues.

Health screenings, which involve a series of physical examinations, tests, and other procedures, are important for the early detection of diseases that might otherwise go unnoticed if symptoms have not manifested yet. For example, the urinalysis test — in which the individual provides a urine sample — can help detect various conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and liver disease.

Though research has shown that health screenings are associated with longer life expectancies, there are still some common misconceptions that deter individuals from undergoing them. Read on to find out more about the benefits of health screenings and the tests that should be performed at each life stage.

MYTH #1: HEALTH SCREENINGS ARE EXPENSIVE

When we think about health screenings, we tend to associate them with a high cost. However, there are ways to take charge of your health without breaking the bank.

Singaporeans who have signed up for Healthier SG (HSG) have access to a fully-subsidised health screening at their enrolled HSG clinic under Screen for Life, the national health screening programme.

The subsidy covers the cost of the recommended screening tests and doctor’s consultation if they are performed during the same visit, as well as the first follow-up consultation fee if necessary.

MYTH #2: HEALTH SCREENINGS AREN’T NECESSARY IF I’M NOT ILL

Many common diseases do not display noticeable symptoms until they progress to an advanced stage. 

6 out of 10 people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus — sometimes referred to as a “silent disease” — report having zero symptoms, but early detection has been shown to reduce diabetes-related deaths caused by cardiovascular damage.

By catching diseases early, health screenings can ensure that patients have more treatment options and more time to reverse the disease’s course.

MYTH #3: ONCE IS ENOUGH

A single health screening is like a photograph — it only captures information at that point in time. As many health conditions develop with age, it’s especially important to keep close tabs on your health through screenings. 

Based on your medical history and other risk factors such as age or gender, your doctor will make a recommendation on how often you should undergo health screenings, and what tests or examinations should be included.

THE RIGHT TIME: HEALTH SCREENINGS THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE

AT THIS AGE YOU SHOULD BE SCREENED FOR…
Hearing loss, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, inborn errors of metabolism, and primary hypothyroidism
Eyesight, hearing, growth and development, spinal screening for scoliosis (girls only), height and body mass index if needed
Obesity and hypertension
Diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidaemia (high blood cholesterol)

Colorectal cancer

HEALTH SCREENINGS BASED ON GENDER NEEDS
Cervical cancer
Breast cancer
Prostate cancer

MYTH #4: I ALREADY SEE A GP REGULARLY, SO HEALTH SCREENINGS AREN’T NEEDED

Perhaps you already see your general practitioner (GP) regularly to manage a chronic health condition.

That doesn’t mean, however, that you can skip out on health screenings. After all, GP visits are usually focused on treating an existing condition and the consultation won’t include tests, examinations or other procedures designed to detect unrelated problems like cancer or cardiovascular disease.

MYTH #5: THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE IS THE BEST

While it might be tempting to be kiasu and add on all the additional tests available in a health screening package, your doctor might point out that they are unnecessary.  

The tests in health screenings can be divided into three categories: Tests for the most common conditions, like obesity and hypertension; tests that are suitable for some individuals with high risk factors for certain diseases, like liver cancer or osteoporosis; and tests that are not recommended for screening, as there is little evidence proving their usefulness in this setting.

To find out what tests your ideal health screening should consist of, speak to your GP, who will make recommendations based on your personal health profile.

HOW HOMETEAMNS SUPPORTS YOUR HEALTH

Besides access to fitness amenities at HomeTeamNS clubhouses — such as Fitness Workz gyms and swimming pools — HomeTeamNS members can sign up for numerous sport and fitness and health and wellness courses.

There are also special rates for health screenings from various providers. Sign up your spouse, children and parents for the free one-year HomeTeamNS Family Membership, so that they can enjoy access to the same wellness benefits:

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Singapore Buzz Featured

Insider concert survival guide: Navigate concerts like a pro with these tips

Secured your tickets to a must-see live music event? Here are strategies for an unforgettable concert experience.

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, FaUZI AZIZ, TEDRICK CHIN, SHARNE SULAIMAN, DARYL SEAH

TEXT: THERESE TAY

Music-wise, Singapore is rocking it in 2024 with a slew of live concerts from critically-acclaimed artists like Coldplay and Taylor Swift, to shows from GRAMMY award-winning artist Bruno Mars, Korean singer-songwriter IU, and former One Direction member Niall Horan, who will be gracing our shores next.

If you’ve snagged tickets to a highly-anticipated upcoming gig, here are tips from our Home Team NSmen on how to have the best time – from beating the post-concert travel crowd to concert etiquette and post-concert supper options.

1. GO MINIMALIST

Whether it’s for personal comfort, safety of your belongings, or to get to places quickly, try to keep it simple on concert day. “Be minimal, for example, dressing lightly and comfortably (within theme of course!) because Singapore’s weather can be unforgiving,” says content creator SGT1 (NS) Fauzi Aziz, who volunteers with the HomeTeamNS Branding and Publicity committee. “Bag checks are notoriously troublesome too. So, if you can carry a small bag or even do without one, that would be great.” 

Fauzi Aziz at Taylor Swift's 'The Eras Tour'

2. DO YOUR HOMEWORK 

For a better overall experience, getting to know the band or artist in advance is recommended. “I would listen to the setlist on repeat for a week or so in advance,” says CPL (NS) Tedrick Chin, Officer, Corporate Communications at HomeTeamNS. “Alongside that, I’d listen to the songs that the band or artist has performed for the tour in other destinations prior to their show in Singapore.”

Tedrick Chin (first from right) after ONE OK ROCK's 'Luxury Disease Asia Tour'

Fauzi agrees, “It’s especially useful to familiarise myself with songs that I may not have listened to before. I also try to learn some lyrics because I love singing along at concerts.”

3.BE KIND

Everyone wants to have a good time so it’s important to be gracious and practise social distancing as well. “Be aware of the people around you and be respectful of them and their space. I know it’s easy to get away with the energy of the concert but it’s for the safety of yourself and others,” Fauzi says. “Personally, I do appreciate standing room tickets because you get to stand up freely during the concert, but I try to stand at the back so I’d be more comfortable and safe throughout.”

Tedrick adds, “If you are in the standing pen, don’t push. It makes for a terrible experience getting shoved around by so many people.”

Sharne Sulaiman (middle) at HONNE's 'May 2023 Asia Tour'

Architect CPL (NS) Sharne Sulaiman, who volunteers with the HomeTeamNS Strategic Review committee, says, “No phones please. It’s very common to raise your phone in the air to video something spectacular, but it can block the person behind you from enjoying that experience. We know the video is ‘for the gram’ so take that eight-second video and enjoy the rest of the concert. The sound quality recorded on your phone will never beat what you hear in person on the day itself.”

4. GET TICKETS-READY IN ADVANCE

Concert tickets are hot property these days and getting prepared before the pre-sale event is a must-do to secure your seats. Sharne advises, “Stay updated by subscribing to e-newsletters from SISTIC, Esplanade, Live Nation, and other concert venues and organisers. Try to be members on all these platforms so you’ll have higher changes of getting privileged first releases.”

Coldplay's 'Music of the Spheres World Tour' captured by Daryl Seah

During the pre-sale event, you can “increase your odds of purchasing tickets by opening multiple tabs and logging into the ticketing platform beforehand,” says CPL (NS) Daryl Seah, Executive, Events and Sales at HomeTeamNS.

Fauzi suggests going solo. “I don’t mind going to concerts alone so it might be easier to get single tickets than for a large group of friends. In a previous concert experience, I bought a single ticket a couple of rows below my friends who were going and on the day itself, I managed to swap seats with the person who sat beside my friends,” he shares.

5. PLAN FOR POST-SHOW SUPPER

Round-up your outing with a satisfying meal. Fast food is an easy, inexpensive option that’s suitably indulgent. Other good options that open late or 24 hours include Daryl’s favourites: Hai Di Lao and Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant.

“My personal favourite supper spot is Zamas at River Valley. It’s further from the usual concert venues but that to me is the selling point because you don’t want to have to squeeze with everyone at the spots nearby. My go-to order is Maggi goreng and teh pandan,” Fauzi adds.

6. ALTERNATIVE POST-CONCERT TRAVEL OPTIONS

Travelling home is always one of the least favourite parts of any concert experience. However, we live in an age where shuttle bus services such as Grab Shuttle are now available, making the trip home a little more bearable.

Alternatively, if you don’t feel like getting caught in the squeeze as you enter Stadium MRT, consider walking a little further to Mountbatten or Kallang MRT stations. Daryl shares, “After the concert, concertgoers can walk over to Mountbatten MRT station to avoid the crowd as there is always a crowd entering Stadium MRT station.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Singapore Buzz Family Time

Step out in style this Hari Raya Puasa

Blend the timeless with the contemporary through the artistry of talented stylemakers.

TEXT: Morgan Awyong

PHOTOS: Shutterstock, Se7ven Flowers, Elda, Ozel

After a month of fasting and contemplation, it’s almost time for the full-on celebration of Hari Raya Puasa. But beyond the usual fellowship, feasting and forgiveness, how about adding a dash of fashion into the festivities?

While the traditional baju kurung remains unmatched in comfort and elegance, those who want to express themselves sartorially will find a treasure trove of options by Asian and international designers. The former, especially, excel in creating designs that are both sensitive to our warm climate and reflective of our cosmopolitan vibes. By blending their offerings with international fashion elements, your whole family is bound to make a statement with your fashion choices this holiday season.

LEVELLING UP THE FAMILY STYLE QUOTIENT

Hari Raya Puasa elevates the concept of matchy-matchy to new heights, with families ready to turn heads in their impeccably-coordinated outfits.

Batik specialist Ozel’s diverse range of handmade apparel and accessories guarantees you’ll stand out without being confined to monochromatic schemes. Its extensive selection of curated traditional and contemporary batik designs ensures that there’s something for every family member — including your house cat! For those with a discerning eye for fashion, Ozel offers customisation services to help you craft an exclusive ensemble tailored to your preferences. 

Similarly, PickADillyBaby also caters to the entire family’s wardrobe needs, focusing on solid colours. Its Dillys collection, crafted from 100% organic cotton, helps even the youngest members stay comfortable and chic, complete with personalised bibs and cuddly bunny toys.

FLATTERING FOR ALL SIZES

A champion of inclusivity, Se7en Flowers stocks designs in a diverse range of sizes up to 5XL. Its collection runs the gamut from pant sets and smock dresses to jumpsuits and sulam tops. No matter your style, whether you’re into colour-blocking or pairing prints, there’s something that will work for you. The label also has a nursing-friendly line, showcasing its commitment to practical, thoughtful design.

Se7en Flowers’ shop is located in Woodlands, but you can place orders via its Instagram account or visit its pop-up stores across locations such as Suntec City and SingPost Centre during this period.  Don’t forget to check out the latest tudung collection, Ummu, which features 25 distinct prints to give your outfit extra pizzazz.

CHIC IN ANY COLOURWAY

Elda is renowned for its flowy, effortlessly chic aesthetic, characterised by minimalistic tailoring and curated colour palettes.

Its ivory series, for instance, draws inspiration from the oversized trend, with relaxed silhouettes taking reference from the empire dress to keep things visually interesting. The versatile Lydia collection uses graphic floral prints across different items like camisoles, shawls and even a kimono top to exemplify understated elegance. Want something for the boys? The vibrant Nia design is a winning pick.

The brand offers free local shipping for orders over $100, making it easy to access their wide range of attractive offerings online.

A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR HIM AND HER

Blending traditional attire with modern pieces allows for a creative expression of style, letting you adhere to modesty with some clever combinations.

Khatam, a celebrated Malaysian brand with 11 stores and an online presence, showcases a mastery of integrating classic elements with urban fits. For instance, its Mansoor collection – particularly their range of men’s top with three-quarter sleeves – has a relaxed fit for optimal breathability and is designed around modern lifestyles. Its Samping collection, crafted from rich brocade, boasts a luxurious aesthetic — even when paired with snazzy sneakers. The label ships to Singapore, with free lifetime repair services included.

For contemporary options, Zalora is the go-to, offering endless possibilities for mixing and matching. Pick a flowy long-sleeved blouse to go with your baju skirt, or combine a traditional men’s shirt with slim-fit chinos for a look that stands out. With regular discounts offered on the site, both men and women can enjoy making fashion statements while optimising their shopping budgets.

ACCESSORISE WITH TRADITION AND TREND

Give conventional looks a modern twist with these accessory ideas:

Turn function into fashion: Make headscarves a joy to wear with the stylish yet practical long brooches by The Hawwa, designed to secure fabric neatly and double as a conversation-starter.

Crowning glory: Wearing the pieces from TudungPeopleSG is like wearing a work of art, with its unique selection of artistic designs.

Diverse accents to complete your look: HomeTeamNS members can indulge in a shopping spree at SHEIN and enjoy an exclusive 18% discount — with no minimum purchase needed. This special offer is ideal for picking up new accessories, footwear and trendy bags to accentuate any outfit.

Give yourself a glow-up: Embrace flattering earth-toned makeup from The Katt & Co for a natural, festive radiance.

A touch of artisanal flair: Pick up a bespoke macrame bag from Mimpikita, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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