SM Puerto Princesa conducts emergency, rescue training

SM City Puerto Princesa has trained its security and operations personnel in a weeklong SM Emergency Rescue Team (SMERT) drill and exercise.

With aims to provide participants with adequate skills and knowledge during emergency procedures in times of natural and man-made crisis, SMERT is an exclusive practical training for SM’s emergency and rescue team conducted on November 19-23, 2018.

“SMERT is a testament of SM’s commitment to disaster risk reduction and management and emergency rescue efforts that benefits not only the participants and the company but also the communities SM serves especially in times of calamities and crises,” said Darrell Sy, assistant mall manager of SM City Puerto Princesa.

Forty-three participants were enjoined to do practical skills in basic life support, in getting blood pressure of patients, and in using emergency equipment like Pulse Oximeter. The said training also provides hands-on exercises with emphasis on spine board management and scoop stretcher as well as emergency and urgent moves base.

“We really appreciate this training because it prepares us to be equipped and more confident in helping others during emergencies,” said Chrisma Budao, SM’s customer relations services representative.

SM employees led by the Customer Relations Services Department also participated in the application of oxygen and positive pressure ventilation thru practical skills enhancement and scenario. Learned skills were tested during the training especially on the establishment of

ICS facilities, individual descending techniques, descending with victim, vertical and horizontal victim hauling, and Tyrolean traverse.

Completing the training, participants also learned about basic water rescue skills including safe water entry, approach to patient, rescue swim or carry, spine board management in water, and release methods applicable in contained and open water.

SMERT was facilitated by trainers from Start Rescue Training Services, which is a training provider registered under the American Heart Association, Philippine Heart Association, TESDA, National Emergency Response Association, Search and Rescue Network, International Trauma Life Support, International Rope Access Training Association, and the Bureau of Fire Protection – Certificate of Competency. (P.R)