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On International Women’s Day, SCDF honours the courage and dedication of women on the frontlines - firefighters and paramedics who work hand-in-hand - united in their mission to protect and save lives and property.

SGT3 Nurhidayah Binte Rosli finds it fulfilling to meet people from all walks of life, as she carries out her duties as a Paramedic at Clementi Fire Station. PHOTO: SCDF

Growing up, SGT3 Hidayah admired her mother’s dedication as a nurse, witnessing how she devoted herself to caring for others at work and at home. She faced a lifechanging moment in her early 20s when her late grandfather collapsed while her parents were overseas. 

“I was lost and didn’t know what to do,” she recalled. That incident cemented her decision to become a paramedic and dedicate herself to saving lives. “I vowed to myself that I never want to feel that sense of helplessness again.” 

Now in her eighth year as a paramedic, SGT3 Hidayah is convinced that being a paramedic is more than just a profession. “It’s not just about wearing the uniform,” she said. “It’s about empathising with people during the most distressing moments of their lives.”

Fuelled by the desire to make a difference in people’s lives, LTA Priscilla Chai Huan Ning joined SCDF as a Fire and Rescue Officer. PHOTO: SCDF

LTA Priscilla’s journey with the SCDF began in her 30s, after a mid-career switch. Inspired by the stories and experiences of her friends in the SCDF, she made the decision to join as a Fire and Rescue Officer. 

“Initially, I had concerns if I could complete the course,” LTA Priscilla shared, explaining that physical fitness was only part of the equation. “Apart from physical strength and conditioning, you also require mental endurance to stay focused and ensure the safety of your colleagues during incidents.” 

Throughout the 7-month Rota Commander Course, the close-knit friendships built along the way kept her going and she gradually overcame her self-doubts. “As friends, we push each other to be better, and as a team, we can accomplish more together,” she said. After completing the course, she was posted to Changi Fire Station as a Rota Commander. 

When asked what they value most in their work, both SGT3 Hidayah and LTA Priscilla unanimously mentioned the camaraderie and trust among colleagues. 

SGT3 Hidayah (first row, second from left) with her batchmates and instructor at the Civil Defence Academy during their training. PHOTO: SGT3 NURHIDAYAH BINTE ROSLI

“In this line of work, we know we have each other’s backs,” SGT3 Hidayah shared. This deep sense of mutual trust extends beyond the job, fostering a strong support system both on and off duty. 

That trust was put to the test in an incident close to home. After her night shift, SGT3 Hidayah was having breakfast at her parents’ home, when she got the smell of something burning. She followed the trail of the smoke and found her aunt’s home, two floors below, on fire. 

Without hesitation, she evacuated nearby residents to safety. However, worry gripped her when she could not locate her four-year-old nephew. 

At that moment, firefighters from Clementi Fire Station and Alexandra Fire Station, colleagues whom she had worked with for years, arrived at the scene. When the firefighters emerged from the unit with her nephew, safe and unharmed, she felt a wave of relief.

For LTA Priscilla, being a Rota Commander carries deep significance for her. She recalled an incident where her team responded to a unit fire with a dog trapped inside, barking frantically. 

Working like a well-oiled unit, her team conducted forcible entry on the door, allowing the dog to run out unharmed. 

“We know that fires are immensely distressing to the affected owners. A small act of kindness and empathy, such as talking to them or reuniting them with their beloved pet can bring them some comfort in that moment,” she said. “Being there as a steady presence and source of assurance for those in need is truly meaningful.” 

This sense of support is also reflected in the close partnership between SCDF paramedics and firefighters. The teamwork during an incident does not occur by chance but is honed through regular training exercises. 

“Firefighters are methodical in assessing situations, while paramedics focus on the patient’s medical needs,” SGT3 Hidayah explained. “We complement each other, we know exactly what each other needs to do and this is very crucial, especially in complex incidents.” 

Reflecting on her own journey, SGT3 Hidayah has seen how the paramedic’s role evolved. “Our medical knowledge, skills and equipment are continually being enhanced, and this allows us to manage various and more complex emergencies,” she said. 

Beyond sharpening her medical expertise, she has also grown into a better version of herself. “Being on the frontline, we respond to different incidents every day, meeting people from all walks of life and it is these experiences that have taught me to make meaningful connections with people, offer a listening ear, provide support and care to those around me,” she added with a warm smile. 

Leading her team has been a humbling, yet fulfilling experience for LTA Priscilla (third row, white helmet). PHOTO: LTA PRISCILLA CHAI HUAN NING

For LTA Priscilla, her journey in SCDF has deepened her admiration for the profession. “There’s a saying: ‘Nobody fights a fire alone.’ Every team member contributes something valuable, be it their wealth of experience, decision-making skills, or specialised knowledge.” 

Most importantly, she has gained confidence in herself, “Don’t doubt your abilities or limit yourself on what you can achieve. Women can excel in this field too.”