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From time to time, you may have read about water rescue incidents conducted by the SCDF.

Lieutenant (LTA) Muhammad Tashirin Bin Mohd Tahir, a Rescue Rota Commander in SCDF’s Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (DART), leads his team of elite DART Specialists for such incidents. Apart from being well-versed in water rescue and diving techniques, the DART Specialists also make use of the Remotely Operated Vehicle, which locates casualties with sonar technology, before divers are deployed.

LTA Tashirin (fourth from left) with his team of DART Specialists. They are well-versed in water rescue and diving techniques. PHOTO: SCDF

If we come across someone struggling in the water, how should we help? LTA Tashirin advises everyone to remain calm and put their own safety first. “If you are not trained in water rescue, DO NOT enter the water,” LTA Tashirin emphasised.

It is possible to help a struggling victim by throwing out a rescue float (top) or reaching out with a long paddle or pole (bottom). PHOTO: SCDF

Apart from calling 995 for help, look for floatation devices (e.g. rescue float) and throw them out to the victim. You can reach out to the victim with long items such as poles and paddles but watch out for your own safety. Do not overstretch and fall into the water!” LTA Tashirin cautioned.

LTA Tashirin demonstrating a water rescue. PHOTO: SCDF

Let’s dive in and see how our DART Specialists conduct a water rescue!

Video credits: CPL Muhammad Eldrian Anaqi