Mr Bernard Boey began his volunteering journey at 21. Now 27, the Community First Aider has been awarded with the Commendation Award for his sustained voluntary service to the Singapore Red Cross. In commemoration of World First Aid Day, we interviewed the everyday hero to understand how sizable differences can be made right where we are.

Bernard’s reason for signing up for the Singapore Red Cross Academy’s Standard First Aid Course was simple. “I wanted to know how to help those around me, especially when they get injured.” 

However, after taking the course, he realised that he did not yet possess the confidence to perform first aid. Afraid that he would forget the skills he had painstakingly learnt, he looked for ways for him to practice. Inspired by a childhood friend who had joined the Community First Aid programme as a volunteer, he followed suit. 

“Volunteering with the Community First Aid programme allowed me to build up my confidence as I was able to practice the skills repeatedly until it became like second nature. It’s also very meaningful to be able to volunteer with a programme where the community impact is tangible.”

Put to Good Use

“While I was on duty at Pulau Ubin as a First Aider on Wheels (FAOW), there was an emergency call. Someone had fallen while cycling and was severely injured. 

However, as we were on the way to the casualty, we witnessed another cyclist fall down right in front of our eyes at the road junction. We immediately sent one of our first aiders to assist while the rest of us continued on towards the first casualty. 

Upon arriving, we stabilised their injury, a forearm which we suspected was fractured, and facilitated their evacuation to the jetty where they would be ferried back to mainland by the Police Coast Guard. 

We were extremely glad to have been at the right place and the right time, to be able to assist both casualties.”

The Peripherals are Important

“I was surprised to hear that I was a recipient of the Singapore Red Cross Commendation Award. I owe it all to my peers, seniors, and instructors who have inspired me deeply and taught me all the skills I know. 

I also owe a lot to the volunteers who choose to keep showing up despite their busy schedules. In fact, one of the most memorable volunteering events for me was an overnight race event where participants took turns to run over a 24 hour period. For those of us who were on duty, the night was filled with cup noodle meals and a lot of chatting. We learnt more about each other and it was fun trying to keep each other awake through the night.

This volunteering role has become such a fun and meaningful part of my routine that I’m just happy to help out and serve the community.”

You Can Make a Difference Too

“Everyone starts from somewhere — you don’t need any knowledge or experience apart from getting certified through the Standard First Aid Course. You just need a willingness to learn. 

Start with First Aiders on Wheels (FAOW), and let the team leaders and peers guide you closely. Once you’ve gained some experience, then volunteer as a first aider for events. This would be where you will get the chance to be more independent.”

Sign up for the Standard First Aid Course with the Singapore Red Cross Academy today.