Disaster Rescue Training: 10 Powerful Skills for Emergency Preparedness
Disaster Rescue Training Conducted Successfully at Kamaraj College
Date: 29.06.2026
Time: 12.00 p.m. – 02.00 p.m.
Venue: College Campus
Introduction
The Disaster Rescue Training programme was successfully organized by NSS Unit 218 of Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi, in association with the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, Thoothukudi District, on 29 June 2026 at the college campus. The programme was conducted with the objective of creating awareness among students about disaster preparedness, fire safety, emergency response and rescue techniques.
The event provided students with practical exposure to life-saving methods and emergency handling procedures. It also helped them understand the importance of remaining calm, acting responsibly and supporting rescue operations during critical situations. The programme encouraged students to become socially responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully during emergencies.
Objectives of the Programme
The Disaster Rescue Training programme was organized to equip students with basic knowledge and practical skills needed during emergencies and disaster situations.
The major objectives of the programme were:
- To create awareness about disaster preparedness and emergency response
- To educate students on fire safety and rescue procedures
- To provide hands-on training in the use of firefighting equipment
- To introduce students to rescue tools and safety gear
- To develop confidence in handling emergency situations
- To promote teamwork, leadership and social responsibility
- To strengthen collaboration with Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services
The programme helped students understand that timely action, awareness and proper training can reduce risk and save lives during emergencies.
Presidential Address by the Principal
The programme commenced with the Presidential Address delivered by Dr. K. Bhanumathi, Principal, Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi.
In her address, she highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness in the present-day environment. She encouraged students to acquire practical rescue skills that can help them respond wisely during fire accidents, floods, road accidents, building collapses and other emergency situations.
She also emphasized that students should not remain passive during disasters but should develop awareness, confidence and readiness to assist others wherever possible. Her address gave a meaningful beginning to the Disaster Rescue Training programme.
Felicitation Address
The Felicitation Address was delivered by Dr. A. Arunachala Rajan, Vice Principal, Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi.
He appreciated the collaborative initiative between Kamaraj College and the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services. He stated that such practical training programmes are highly useful for students because they provide real-life knowledge beyond classroom learning.
He also emphasized that emergency preparedness activities help students develop confidence, leadership, teamwork, discipline and social responsibility. His address motivated the students to take active interest in the training and use the opportunity to learn important safety practices.
Address by the Chief Guest
The Chief Guest of the programme, Mr. K. Karunakaran, District Fire Officer, Thoothukudi, delivered an informative address on the role of the Fire and Rescue Services in disaster management.
He explained that quick response, public awareness and community participation are essential in reducing the impact of disasters. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the public and emergency personnel during rescue operations.
His address helped students understand the seriousness of disaster management and the need for proper knowledge in fire safety, rescue methods and emergency response. The session added great value to the Disaster Rescue Training programme.
Address by the Special Guest
The Special Guest, Mrs. M. Gomathi Amutha, Assistant District Fire Officer, Thoothukudi, addressed the students on various safety measures to be followed during emergencies.
She explained the precautions to be taken during fire accidents, floods, building collapses, road accidents and other dangerous situations. She stressed the importance of remaining calm, following safety instructions and assisting emergency personnel without panic.
Her guidance helped students understand that awareness and discipline are very important during crisis situations. She also encouraged students to share safety messages with their families, friends and the public.
Practical Demonstration by Fire and Rescue Officers
The practical training session was conducted by Mr. K. Kottaimani, Station Officer, and Mr. R. Kamatchinathan, Senior Station Officer, Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services.
The trainers provided detailed demonstrations of firefighting and rescue equipment used during emergency operations. Students were introduced to various tools and safety materials, including:
- Protective gear
- Fire extinguishers
- Rescue ropes
- Stretchers
- Breathing apparatus
- Hydraulic rescue tools
- Ladders and other rescue equipment
The demonstrations helped students understand the purpose and proper use of each equipment during emergency response and rescue operations.
Hands-on Training Session
A major highlight of the Disaster Rescue Training programme was the hands-on training session. Students actively participated in practical exercises under the guidance of experienced officers from the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services.
The training included:
- Proper use of fire extinguishers
- Basic firefighting techniques
- Evacuation procedures during emergencies
- Rescue methods during fire accidents
- Victim handling and safe movement
- Use of rescue ropes and stretchers
- Emergency response practices
The practical session enabled students to gain first-hand experience and understand the importance of quick, careful and responsible action during emergencies.
Student Participation
A total of 150 students from Kamaraj College enthusiastically participated in the programme. Their active involvement made the event meaningful, energetic and highly effective.
The students showed keen interest in observing the demonstrations and participating in the hands-on activities. They learned directly from experienced officers and gained practical awareness of disaster management, fire safety and rescue techniques.
The Disaster Rescue Training programme helped students build confidence and understand their role in emergency preparedness and community safety.
Role of NSS Unit 218
The programme was coordinated by Dr. R. Karuppasamy, NSS Programme Officer, NSS Unit 218. His coordination ensured the smooth planning and successful execution of the event.
NSS Unit 218 played an important role in organizing the programme with a strong focus on social responsibility and student development. NSS activities help students understand public issues, community needs and responsible citizenship.
Through this initiative, the NSS unit encouraged students to become active contributors to society by learning practical skills that can be useful during emergencies.
Benefits for Students
The programme provided several valuable benefits to the participating students.
- Students gained awareness about disaster preparedness and emergency response
- They learned the proper use of firefighting and rescue equipment
- They received practical exposure to rescue techniques
- They developed confidence in responding to emergency situations
- They understood the importance of teamwork and leadership
- They gained awareness about fire safety and evacuation procedures
- They learned the value of social responsibility and public service
These benefits will help students act with confidence, discipline and awareness during emergency situations.
Outcome of the Programme
The Disaster Rescue Training programme successfully enhanced students’ awareness of disaster preparedness, fire safety, emergency response and rescue methods. The demonstrations and hands-on activities gave students practical knowledge that can be useful in real-life situations.
The major outcomes of the programme were:
- Enhanced awareness of disaster preparedness and emergency response
- Practical experience in using firefighting and rescue equipment
- Improved confidence in handling emergency situations
- Promotion of teamwork, leadership and social responsibility
- Strengthened collaboration between Kamaraj College and Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services
The programme created a strong impact by combining awareness, demonstration and practical training.
Importance of Disaster Preparedness
Disaster preparedness is an important life skill for students and the public. Emergencies can happen at any time, and proper awareness can help reduce damage and save lives.
The Disaster Rescue Training programme helped students understand that safety is a shared responsibility. Students learned that they must remain alert, follow instructions, avoid panic and assist others responsibly during emergencies.
The programme also highlighted the importance of community participation in disaster management. When students are trained in basic safety and rescue methods, they can become valuable supporters during emergency situations.
Vote of Thanks
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks expressing sincere gratitude to the Principal, Vice Principal, officers of the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, trainers, faculty members, NSS volunteers and all participants.
The organizers appreciated the valuable contribution of the Fire and Rescue Services officers who conducted the demonstrations and training sessions with clarity and commitment. The Vote of Thanks brought the programme to a graceful conclusion.
Conclusion
The Disaster Rescue Training programme organized by NSS Unit 218 of Kamaraj College in association with Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, Thoothukudi District, concluded successfully on 29 June 2026. The programme provided students with valuable knowledge on disaster preparedness, fire safety, emergency response and life-saving rescue techniques.
The addresses by the dignitaries, demonstrations by trained officers, hands-on activities and enthusiastic participation of 150 students made the event highly useful and impactful. Overall, the programme reflected the commitment of Kamaraj College to student safety, social responsibility, community awareness and practical learning.
Internal Link
Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi