Equip yourself with the skills to make a life-changing difference in an emergency.
We often think we’re prepared — until the unexpected happens. While Singapore remains one of the safest nations in the world, we live in a time of increasing unpredictability. Emergencies, whether a medical crisis at home or a large-scale incident in public, can arise in an instant. Knowing how to respond can turn a life-altering crisis into a manageable situation.
The importance of readiness is highlighted every Total Defence Day, commemorated on 15 February. This date marks the surrender of British forces in Singapore to the Japanese in 1942 during World War II, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and prepared.
Fortunately, essential life-saving skills are within reach for everyone and form a key part of Singapore’s Total Defence efforts. By equipping yourself with practical, life-saving techniques, you not only protect your loved ones but also help build a more resilient community. Across Singapore, programmes are available to teach these vital skills in just a short amount of time — a small investment that can have a lasting impact.
BE A LIFESAVER
Emergencies like cardiac arrest or accidents can happen anytime, anywhere — and every second counts. Being equipped with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid skills can mean the difference between life and death.
You don’t need prior medical experience to start. Organisations like the Singapore Red Cross Academy and Singapore First Aid Training Centre (SFATC) welcome everyone. HomeTeamNS members can enjoy a 5% discount on all First Aid courses with SFATC.
These lessons teach you proper CPR techniques, how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and how to provide first aid for injuries like cuts and trauma. Beyond knowledge, these skills build your confidence to stay composed during critical moments, enabling you to be the calm, reliable presence others can depend on.
FIRE-PROOF YOUR HOME
Fires caused by personal mobility devices (PMDs) have been a growing concern. Additionally, more than half of the fires recorded in early 2023 were residential, often linked to unattended cooking or electrical faults, with some spreading to neighbouring units.
Thankfully, many of these incidents are preventable with proper knowledge and precautions. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) runs the Responders Plus Programme (RPP), which teaches you how to identify fire hazards, use electrical appliances safely and extinguish small fires through hands-on exercises. Your timely actions can stop a spark from turning into a blaze.
STAY WATER-WISE
As a nation surrounded by water, Singapore offers plenty of aquatic activities like swimming, kayaking and wakeboarding. But with these come risks, especially in open waters or crowded pools.
The Singapore Lifesaving Society (SLSS) offers training across three levels, covering essential water safety knowledge and rescue techniques. You’ll learn to spot signs of drowning, locate safety equipment like life rings and even perform water rescues. Those who wish to further their skills can achieve bronze certification, preparing them for greater challenges.
BUILD INNER STRENGTH
Practical skills are vital, but mental resilience is just as essential. Life’s challenges can be tough, and having psychological fortitude enables you to weather stress with poise.
Institutions like the Social Service Institute, Singapore Institute of Management and Singapore Management University offer programmes on mental well-being. From mindfulness techniques to self-care strategies, these sessions empower you to stay balanced during trying times. You’ll also learn to recognise when someone else is struggling and how to offer support, fostering a stronger emotional connection with those around you.
GUARD AGAINST ONLINE THREATS
The digital age has brought incredible convenience, but also risks like scams, phishing and identity theft. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and it’s crucial to stay ahead of their tactics.
SkillfutureSG and the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) offer resources to keep you informed and protected. Learn how to identify phishing attempts, recognise red flags online, safeguard your online identity and avoid common traps. By adopting these measures, you can more confidently navigate the digital landscape and even help others avoid falling prey to cybercrime with your expertise.
MAKE SPACES SAFER
Home is where we feel most secure, but it’s also where many accidents occur — from kitchen burns to bathroom slips or improper food storage. With the right precautions, however, many of these mishaps can be avoided.
Organisations like the Institute of Technical Education and Learn For Life SG offer courses on home safety. Pick up tips on how to prevent electrical shocks, reinforce home safety and secure vulnerable areas such as windows and balconies. For households with children or elderly members, these precautions provide peace of mind and a safer environment for everyone.
READY FOR ANYTHING: NAVIGATING PUBLIC EMERGENCIES
Emergencies in public spaces can escalate in moments, but knowing how to respond can save lives and minimise chaos. At the SCDF’s Community Resilience Days, you’ll gain essential skills to handle such situations, empowering you to protect your loved ones and support your community in times of need.
On 15 and 16 February 2025, HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir will host a Total Defence Day event — FREE for all to attend. Gain hands-on experience in firefighting, build mental resilience and learn about current community watch schemes. Other exciting highlights include a smoke bubble show, a food station, and a special showcase of the SCDF Fire Bike and SPF Traffic Police Bike.
From 14 to 19 February 2025, HomeTeamNS Khatib will also be holding a SGSecure exhibition where you can learn how to respond to different threats. This event is open to public.
This year’s Total Defence exercise, Exercise SG Ready, returns with the theme “Are you ready for disruptions?” As a signature event of SG60 (Singapore’s 60th year of independence), the exercise runs from 15 to 28 February 2025, focusing on strengthening preparedness for power disruptions. The exercise will take place at various locations across Singapore.
Stay tuned for updates on the latest happenings via the official Total Defence website.
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