SURVIVAL - PHASE 01
In a world increasingly impacted by natural disasters, preparedness has become more crucial than ever. The first phase of the "Survival" project: a comprehensive initiative for disaster management and prevention, was successfully held on December 17, 2024, at the STF Training Camp in Katukurunda, Kalutara. This phase, themed “Be Prepared,” aimed to equip over 40 university students with essential survival and disaster response skills. The primary goal of this project was to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills required to act decisively during emergencies. This phase mainly focused on three key areas: search and rescue operations, first aid, and survival skills. It featured engaging workshops that combined theory with practical sessions, conducted by experts in disaster management, paramedics, and rescue operations.
The session began with a comprehensive lecture on various disasters, including both natural and man-made threats, such as chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) hazards. This lecture provided participants with a broad understanding of the risks they might encounter during emergencies. Following the lecture, officers introduced essential rescue equipment and explained its practical applications in real-world scenarios. Through hands-on demonstrations, students learned how to use these tools effectively, from transporting injured individuals to navigating dangerous environments. This practical, interactive approach not only enhanced their technical skills but also instilled the confidence needed to respond swiftly and effectively in crisis situations.
The second part of the training focused on first aid, equipping students with essential skills to provide immediate care during emergencies. This session covered a range of critical topics, including performing CPR and handling common injuries such as sprains. Students were taught how to assess a victim’s condition, prioritize care, and stabilize them until professional medical assistance arrived. This segment emphasized the importance of first aid in disaster response, empowering students to save lives and mitigate harm during emergencies.
In the final part of the first phase, students were immersed in realistic forest scenarios, where they learned how to survive in the wild. They were taught critical skills such as foraging for food and water and identifying water sources. Building makeshift shelters from natural materials like branches and leaves was another essential lesson, ensuring protection from harsh weather conditions. They also learned techniques such as setting traps, creating snares, and using basic tools to catch prey in the wild. The training included guidance on how to prepare food in the forest, ensuring that they could maximize their resources. This involved using basic fire-starting techniques, as well as cooking food using leaves, stones, bamboo, and other natural materials found in the forest. Participants also learned how to create signals for rescue using fire, reflective surfaces, or makeshift markers to attract attention.With the success of Phase 1, Project Survival is set to continue its impactful journey with Phase 2, Rise Above Risks, focusing on flood and landslide prevention, and Phase 3, Hope in Drought, addressing water scarcity in drought-prone regions. By providing hands-on training and fostering a mindset of resilience, Project Survival aims to empower communities to overcome environmental challenges, reduce disaster risks, and ultimately thrive despite adversity.
- By Leo Sandeepa Kodikara -
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