Province-wide civil defence, rescue drills conducted

LAHORE:Large-scale civil defence and emergency preparedness drills have been launched across the province on the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister. These exercises aimed to strengthen public awareness and institutional readiness in the event of emergencies or wartime situations.

According to the spokesperson of the Punjab Home Department, the drills are being conducted with the participation of Civil Defence personnel, Rescue 1122 teams, and law enforcement agencies. Over 3,000 Civil Defence volunteers and 1,500 Rescue officials are currently taking part in these drills.

The exercises are designed to train participants in critical safety measures during emergencies. Educational institutions and members of civil society have been specially involved in the drills to widen public outreach. Citizens are being educated on how to respond to air raid sirens, seek shelter in bunkers or safe rooms, and take precautions to avoid injuries from blasts, such as staying away from windows. They are also being instructed to turn off gas and electricity supplies during attacks to prevent fire hazards, and to remain in darkness at night in targeted areas to avoid detection.

The participants are advised to stay updated through radios or mobile phones for official instructions and not to leave shelters until the all-clear is confirmed. Special emphasis is being placed on the care of children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. In case of injury, people are urged to administer first aid or contact rescue teams. Citizens are encouraged to keep emergency kits ready, including water, dry food, medication, flashlight, batteries, a radio, and basic medical supplies. Where shelters are not accessible, people are advised to secure interior rooms or basements in their homes.

The public is also being cautioned against rumors and advised to rely only on verified information sources. Mental preparedness is emphasized, especially for children, to reduce fear and panic. Travel to conflict-prone areas is discouraged, and citizens are warned to stay away from unexploded drones or suspicious objects until cleared by the Civil Defence bomb disposal squad.

Meanwhile, in a demonstration of operational readiness and inter-agency coordination, Lahore Police, in collaboration with district administration and emergency services, conducted a mock drill and first aid training session to enhance preparedness against potential threats and emergency situations.

The exercise, held under the supervision of SP Headquarters Munaza Karamat, brought together officers from various police divisions including DSP Headquarters, Reserve Inspector Lines, Line Officers, and Elite Force teams. Personnel from Civil Defence, Bomb Disposal Squad, Special Branch, and Rescue 1122 also actively participated in the session.

A total of 70 police officers and personnel, including 10 female officers, took part in the drill, which featured emergency response simulations and hands-on first aid training. Speaking on the occasion, SP Headquarters Munaza stated that the purpose of the mock drill was to prepare the force to thwart any nefarious designs of the enemy. “Lahore Police remain fully equipped and ready to respond to any emergency situation,” she asserted. The drill is part of a broader initiative to ensure rapid and coordinated responses to emergencies, and to continuously evaluate the effectiveness of standard operating procedures followed by various law enforcement and rescue agencies. The drill was held at the grounds of Central Model School, Retigan Road, under the supervision of SP City Bilal Ahmad.