Skills that can save lives

In Mary, the Mary branch of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan, together with representatives of the Main Directorate of Civil Defense and Rescue Operations of the Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan, and with the participation of Major Bakhar Khudaiberenova, a senior specialist, held practical training sessions for new volunteers.

The goal of the event was to develop first aid skills and the correct actions to take in emergency situations.

The training is preventative in nature and aimed at increasing public preparedness.

During the sessions, participants learned the basics of first aid and practiced them. Under the guidance of Red Crescent specialists Oguljuma Saparmukhamedova, Muhammetgeldi Allayarov, and Mekan Bayramov, they performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as well as treatments for injuries and loss of consciousness.

In addition, the volunteers were provided with information on international conventions in the field of humanitarian law and the principles of emergency assistance.

As Saparmuhammedova Oguljuma, a specialist with the Mary branch of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan, noted:

"Such training not only provides theoretical knowledge but also builds confidence in one's actions. In an emergency, it's important not to lose your head and provide assistance promptly and correctly."

The practical portion included practicing evacuating victims, using stretchers, and setting up temporary accommodation points. The exercises were conducted in conditions similar to real-life situations.

The event was part of a systematic effort to prepare the population for potential emergencies. In this regard, the Main Directorate of Civil Defense and Rescue Operations of the Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan, together with the Ministry of Education, regularly conducts simulation exercises involving students, teachers, and school administrators.

These initiatives are being implemented as part of cooperation in emergency response and in accordance with the country's international commitments, including participation in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030. Such events are held regularly at both the local and regional levels, with the involvement of volunteers from the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan.

These activities foster responsibility, develop practical skills, and a willingness to provide assistance in various situations.