The Development of a Citizen Disaster Preparedness Training Program

Summary: Mass casualty incidents (MCI) stress systems. Research shows the critical role laypersons play in saving lives and reducing morbidity by providing time-sensitive interventions at a disaster scene. While many first-aid and basic life support courses exist, training for laypersons to respond to disasters is few. A course, “Ground Zero,” was developed by Disaster Volunteer Corps, Singapore General Hospital, for laypersons focusing on basic disaster management and simple lifesaving interventions. This review aims to detail the methods of course development and challenges faced in this pilot program. Kern’s 6-step approach was undertaken for curriculum development. Core content for Ground Zero included scene safety, triage, emergency communications, and principles for basic lifesaving procedures. Emergency physicians supervised Emergency Medicine residents and trained students who conducted the sessions. Course feedback was sought through online forms. Pre- and post-session quizzes were undertaken to assess the learning and confidence of the participants. (Key challenges faced) • Implementation: Phase 1 was delivered online with breakout sessions, due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Phase 2 was delivered in person, with sessions centering around hands-on practice, and culminating with a simulated MCI, with scene safety, assessment and intervention, and evacuation of casualties undertaken by participants. • Understanding: the course needed to address disaster response from the layperson’s perspective. MCI principles needed to be simplified, and the limitations of life-saving measures in MCIs had to be addressed sensitively. Citizens have differing levels of baseline medical understanding and willingness to intervene. Focus stayed on empowering and not endangering them in their efforts. The importance of alignment with emergency systems was also taught. Previous studies demonstrate the willingness of laypersons to respond to disaster scenarios. However, there is a lack of training in this area. Education remains a cornerstone in disaster readiness. Further training and research need to be conducted.