Community initiative brings critical water survival training to residents

A community-led safety initiative in Bandar Utama is set to equip residents with life-saving water survival skills through a specialised training programme later this month. Organised by Bomba Komuniti Bandar Utama, the two-hour session aims to bridge the gap between basic swimming ability and real-life emergency preparedness.

Scheduled for Saturday, 25 April 2026, the training will take place at the swimming pool of Bukit Kiara Resort, with strategic collaboration from Balai Bomba dan Penyelamat Damansara. The venue sponsorship by Linnert Hoo, Head of Berjaya Club, underscores the role of private sector support in advancing community safety initiatives.

Bridging gap between swimming and survival skills

Drowning incidents often involve individuals who possess basic swimming abilities but lack the endurance and technical knowledge required during emergencies. The programme focuses on equipping participants with practical techniques to manage panic, conserve energy, and respond effectively in distress situations.

A key principle highlighted during the session is the “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go” approach, a widely recognised rescue method that emphasises assisting victims without entering the water. Participants will learn how to use simple tools such as ropes, poles, and flotation devices to prevent becoming secondary victims in rescue attempts.

Practical training led by certified firefighters

The session will be conducted by certified trainers from the Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia, ensuring adherence to national safety standards. The curriculum includes survival floating techniques to conserve energy, effective treading water methods for visibility and breathing, and improvised buoyancy skills using everyday objects such as a 1.5-litre plastic bottle.

Limited to 20 participants, the programme runs from 11:00am to 1:00pm, with registration beginning at 10:30am. Attendees are required to bring swimwear, a towel, and an empty plastic bottle with a cap.

The initiative reflects the growing emphasis on grassroots preparedness and community resilience, particularly in urban areas prone to flash floods and water-related incidents.

For more information, contact Jimmy Tan at 016-2636842.