NSDMA conducts mock drill on earthquake and fire safety

Dimapur, July 22 (EMN): Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), with the support of Kohima district project associates (DPA) namely Home Guards (HG), Civil Defence and SDRF and Fire and Emergency Services, conducted a joint mock drill on earthquake and fire safety at the Directorate of Economics and Statistics in Kohima on July 22.

An update from NSDMA stated that the mock drill was first of its kind to be conducted at the directorate level in the state. It was conducted to create awareness, preparedness, to ensure safety of employees and to effectively respond in the event of any disaster.

In his opening remarks, the director of Economics and Statistics, Neidilhou Angami, urged the staff to take the drill as an opportunity to learn and experience a new lesson to tackle real life disaster situation. He also urged the staff to take the exercise seriously.

The mock drill began with the sounding of siren followed with demonstration on fire safety by the personnel from Fire and Emergency Services, while first aid demonstration was presented by SDRF personnel.

Evacuation plan including search and rescue mission was conducted by SDRF personnel, wherein injured persons and others in different medical conditions were retrieved from different levels of the building. Besides, high-rise building rescue mission was also demonstrated.

The mock drill exercise was conducted simulating an earthquake scenario, the statement said.

During the drill, self-help during calamities such as drop cover and hold, finding appropriate place for protection, evacuating to a safety place, how to check for injuries and treat, how to remain calm and self assured and help others, who are distressed, to be alert, quick and responsible were taught and demonstrated.

Prior to the mock drill, a coordination meeting was held at the conference hall of the Directorate of Economics and Statistics on July 18, where Khrolou Koza Lohe, assistant manager training and education, made a power point presentation. It informed that Victor Yhome, DPA, briefed the department officers and staff on July 21.

The inaugural programme was led by Theyieneinuo Belho, deputy director and the drill concluded with debriefing and remarks from Keren Rose, NSDMA assistant manager and PRO.

CAP: Personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services demonstrating on handling fire extinguishers during a mock drill in Kohima on Friday.