Mock attack on SMRT train (Straits times 09/02/2009):
IT WAS not just the usual train ride for the more than 500
'commuters' who took part in an emergency evacuation exercise
organised by SMRT yesterday morning.
Packed into a train at Pioneer MRT station, part of the
soon-to-be-opened Boon Lay Extension, they experienced first-hand a
simulated arson and bomb attack.
An SMRT staff member, holding a plastic bottle wrapped in
newspaper, was planted in the middle of a carriage. As the train
pulled out of the station towards Joo Koon station, he emptied the
'kerosene' on the floor, in simulation of an arson attack.
A 'bombing' followed in another carriage, causing a roar that
tore through the train's speakers, and left three bloody
'casualties' on the floor. The lights went out and the
air-conditioning was shut off.
SMRT staff had already pre-briefed the participants, made up of
residents from Southwest Community Development Council and students
from the Singapore Management University, on what to do in the
event of an emergency.
This meant pressing an emergency communication button to inform
the train officer or a control centre officer of the situation in
each carriage.
The 'passengers' were also led by Singapore Civil Defence Force
officers to emergency exits at the front and back end of the train.
Both open up onto ramps that allow passengers to get off the train.
From there, they could cross over onto the platform.
Many of the participants brought their kids along for the
experience, while others came out of curiosity.
Marketing executive Tammy Chan, 30, who commutes to work by
train every day, said: 'It's good to have an idea of what to do in
an emergency because it reduces panic level and confusion.'
