At the National Day Parade (NDP) 2024, a dedicated team of Singapore Red Cross (SRC) first aiders played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of spectators. Led by Mr Bernard Boey and Dr Sean Elliot Png, and supported by volunteers like Mr Ryan Koh, the team navigated the challenges of large crowds, and potential medical emergencies to provide swift and effective care. 

At the heart of the National Day Parade (NDP) 2024, where tens of thousands gathered to celebrate at the Padang, a dedicated team of Singapore Red Cross (SRC) first aiders provided essential first aid and responded to medical emergencies. Among these first aiders were Bernard Boey, one of the First Aid In-Charge (IC) for this year's parade, and Ryan Koh, a volunteer, driven by the passion for ensuring spectator safety.

The Motivation Behind the Mission

For Bernard Boey, the motivation to join NDP as a first aider extended beyond the excitement of the event. 

“People may perceive that joining NDP is exciting as it enables you to watch a free show. But after participating as a first aider and watching the show several times, what was most enjoyable to me was providing first aid support at such a large-scale event and making an impact on both casualties and fellow first aiders,” said Bernard. 

Ryan Koh, most right in the photo

Ryan Koh, a volunteer first aider, echoed this sentiment. 

“Keeping a watchful eye for the spectator's safety and ensuring their well-being are the biggest motivators for us. Of course, watching the show occasionally while doing our job also makes our experience more worthwhile,” said Ryan.

Roles and Responsibilities

First aiders at the NDP were the frontline responders for the casualties among the spectators. One hundred and fifteen SRC first aiders were mobilised across the eight dates of the first aid deployment.

With 20 SRC first aiders deployed at each of the seven rehearsals, National Education shows, and previews, followed by the actual NDP, the team was well-prepared for various medical scenarios.

Some first aid cases the team handled included minor injuries such as abrasions and cuts.

“Usually for minor injuries such as abrasions and cuts we will just treat the casualties on-site with the supplies we have in our first aid bags," said Ryan. 

The first aid team was also on the lookout to detect more serious conditions such as vomiting, fever, heat exhaustion and cardiac arrest. 

"If a spectator's condition was more critical, e.g. sustaining a cardiac arrest, we would administer Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) before facilitating their evacuation to the medical posts. The medical posts were manned by the Singapore Armed Forces personnel including doctors, who provided a higher level of care to the casualty," Bernard said.  

“First aiders were split into teams. Each team covered a certain sector of the audience seating area. Each team leader mentored and oversaw the volunteer first aiders in his or her charge,” explained Bernard. His responsibilities as the First Aid IC involved months of preparation, coordinating with the NDP medical committee, managing logistics, and providing guidance to team leaders and first aiders.

Challenges and Rewards

The NDP presented unique stumbling blocks, from managing large crowds to coping with some visibility challenges at night.

“One of the largest challenges is crowd control, especially when there is a casualty. We have to be firm and try to get people away from the casualty so that we can quickly evacuate them if necessary,” Ryan said.

“It can be challenging to identify casualties at night while keeping in contact with fellow first aiders who may be spread out at a distance. We remind our first aiders to exercise constant vigilance and be on the lookout for potential casualties while caring and assisting each other,” Bernard said.

Despite the challenges they encountered, the first aiders were heartened by the casualties' gratitude and appreciation.

“I am happy to volunteer as a first aider as we safeguard the well-being of spectators, making a positive contribution to society,” Ryan shared, capturing the essence of what drives these first aiders to continue their invaluable work. 

"Most of our first aiders chose to volunteer as they were motivated to help people in the first place. That is also the reason they continue volunteering with us. First aiders should take pride in ourselves for doing our jobs effectively and efficiently. Every little contribution counts," said Bernard. 

Their contributions were recognised. The gratitude of the casualties brought them heartfelt contentment. Besides that, Bernard also derived fulfillment in mentoring fellow first aiders. 

“Apart from being able to help casualties, I find fulfillment mentoring fellow first aiders and witnessing their confidence grow as they become more proficient in first aid, better communicators while developing their leadership skills,” Bernard said. 

The invaluable contributions of Bernard Boey, Ryan Koh, and their fellow first aiders ensured that the NDP 2024 celebration was a safe and memorable event for all. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion embodied the spirit of volunteerism that underpinned the NDP and brought the community together in times of need. 

By Sulis Binte Muhamad Juffery, Intern, Marketing & Communications
Copyedited by Sondra Foo, Marketing & Communications