In the midst of growing concerns among Singaporeans with the rising number of COVID-19 cases, SCDF frontline personnel including those from the healthcare services continued to perform their duties with bravery and conviction.
Mr Amrin Amin, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Home Affairs and Health, during his visit to SCDF’s Operations Centre and Paya Lebar Fire Station on 12 February 2020, thanked SCDF personnel for stepping up and rising to the call to serve Singapore in this time of crisis. These included those screening passengers at the airport, swabbing those placed under quarantine, and conveying suspected cases to hospitals.
“From my conversations with the officers, we have noticed that Singaporeans are generally very receptive and kind,” said Mr Amrin. “But we have also detected a certain level of anxiety, a certain level of concern.”
Mr Amrin Amin, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Home Affairs and Health, speaking to the journalists.
LTC Janice Oh explaining to Mr Amrin Amin how the EMS crew uses the decontamination equipment and personal protective equipment.
Mr Amrin told the media that as the DOSCON level was raised to Orange, all emergency medical personnel are required to wear the full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when responding to all incidents, including COVID-19 cases, and that the public should not be alarmed.
An SCDF personnel in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Mr Amrin also assured members of the public that ambulances which have conveyed suspected COVID-19 cases will be thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated. In addition, personnel who conveyed a suspected case to a hospital are required to remove their PPE and clean up at the hospital before returning.
“In this time of crisis, we must stand together and stand united. These personnel are ordinary men and women who have served Singapore in this time of need. Some of them have even volunteered their services. I think they deserve our support and encouragement. I urge all Singaporeans to encourage them and recognise their contributions in this moment of need,” said Mr Amrin.
Bouquet of Appreciation for Our SCDF Frontliners
Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, SCDF has been receiving words of appreciation and encouragement from members of the public, including students and volunteers.
A token of appreciation from members of the public
Besides receiving words of appreciation and encouragement from the public, SCDF Commissioner Eric Yap, visited SCDF Operations Centre, Kallang Fire Station and the Government Quarantine Facility at Sembawang HomeTeamNS to distribute Care & Wellness packages to SCDF personnel.
Commissioner Eric Yap showing appreciation to SCDF personnel at Kallang Fire Station