Police training to cover first aid, rescue missions

GILGIT: In view of repeated disasters that struck Gilgit-Baltistan this year, a first aid module has been included in the training curriculum for Gilgit-Baltistan police, The Express Tribune has learnt.

“The first aid package would include training on search-and-rescue operations and the prevention of HIV/AIDS and other diseases,” said Ghulam Abbas, a senior official who works at the Pakistan Red Crescent Society’s office in Gilgit. “We are in contact with the police chief in this connection.”

Policemen from Gilgit-Baltistan are recruited and trained at the Police Recruitment and Training Centre.

Highlighting the reason for introducing the module, Abbas said that police are always in a better position to help the people. “If recruits are provided relevant training in proper rescue and search operation, they will able to better understand the problems,” he said.

Stressing on the importance of first aid knowledge, he said that as responsible citizens it was important to have basic knowhow.

“Apart from police, the package is also being extended to the education system so that students and teachers can also contribute in times of crisis,” Abbas said.

Gilgit-Baltistan does not have enough resources for rescue and relief. Apart from the Pakistan Army, only a few NGOs operate to help people during calamities.

Abbas said a number of youth clubs had registered themselves in various districts of the region to participate in rescue and relief operations.

However, he said, the government should support the Red Crescent society and such groups.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 15^th, 2010.