Srinagar: A dedicated team from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Bhagat Barzulla, conducted an extensive demonstration-cum-mock drill on disaster preparedness and emergency management at the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on Thursday under direction of Director SDRF Kashmir, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir.
The activity was specifically organised for the MBBS Batch 2025, aiming to enhance their awareness, technical abilities, and confidence while responding to critical incidents and public health emergencies.
The mock drill featured a series of realistic demonstrations covering a wide range of emergency situations that commonly arise during disasters.
The SDRF team presented structured modules on earthquake preparedness, outlining the immediate actions required to minimise injuries, maintain safety, and assist victims until medical teams arrive. Fire emergency training included demonstrations on identifying hazards, safe evacuation techniques, and systematic fire response strategies. Students were also introduced to drowning rescue procedures, including safe retrieval and first-aid steps essential for stabilising patients until they receive advanced care.
One of the key components of the programme was the training in airway obstruction management in both paediatric and adult populations. The SDRF experts demonstrated the Heimlich maneuver and shared clinical insights on recognising choking, differentiating partial from complete obstruction, and applying age-appropriate interventions.
Additionally, students received hands-on practice in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including chest compressions, rescue breaths, and automated external defibrillator (AED) awareness, aligning with internationally recognised emergency care guidelines.
The session also included practical guidance on the proper use of fire extinguishers, where students were encouraged to operate the equipment themselves under supervision. This activity helped participants build familiarity with the PASS method, which is considered an essential skill during fire outbreaks.
Officials from the SDRF emphasised that the exercise was designed to familiarise future doctors with first-responder responsibilities, particularly during large-scale emergencies where medical teams collaborate with rescue units to manage mass casualty situations.
The participants were introduced to key principles of triage, prioritisation of victims, and rapid situational assessment, skills that remain critical during disasters.
Faculty members at GMC Srinagar appreciated the efforts and professionalism of the SDRF team, acknowledging that such programmes significantly strengthen emergency preparedness in the healthcare sector.
Students expressed positive feedback and acknowledged that the session enhanced their understanding of disaster medicine, risk communication, and crisis response. The training created awareness regarding the importance of preparedness at individual, institutional, and community levels.
The programme concluded with a pledge to conduct similar hands-on training sessions regularly as part of a broader initiative to improve resilience, response capacity, and disaster risk reduction in the region.