News Contributor: Faznah
On July 31, 2024, Pelita Global Mandiri Junior High School organized an engaging and educational disaster mitigation training for all students in grades 7 through 9. The event was a highlight of the school’s commitment to safety and preparedness, featuring a hands-on session led by the experienced team from Basarnas, Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency.
The training focused on earthquake preparedness, a crucial skill for students living in an earthquake-prone region. The Basarnas team brought their expertise to the school, conducting practical evacuation drills that allowed students to experience what to do in the event of an earthquake. The session began with a detailed explanation of the dangers posed by earthquakes and the importance of quick, calm responses.
Students were taught the correct techniques for evacuating a building during an earthquake, including how to protect themselves from falling debris and how to safely navigate to designated assembly points. The Basarnas team demonstrated these techniques step by step, and students were encouraged to practice them repeatedly to build confidence and muscle memory.
The interactive nature of the training made it both educational and enjoyable for the students. They were not merely passive participants; instead, they took an active role in the drills, which helped reinforce the lessons being taught. By the end of the session, students had gained valuable hands-on experience that could one day save lives.
The event concluded with a strong message from the Basarnas team: always be alert and prepared, no matter where you are. This advice resonated deeply with the students, reminding them of the importance of vigilance and readiness in any situation. The disaster mitigation training at Pelita Global Mandiri was not just an ordinary school event; it was a vital lesson in safety that equipped students with the knowledge and skills they need to protect themselves and others in the face of natural disasters.
