A new programme is being piloted in primary schools to teach youngsters what to do in emergency situations.

Organised by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), selected pupils will attend workshops on basic first-aid skills like how to create an arm sling, and how to put together a "ready bag" which consists of essential items like a torchlight, radio and emergency handbook.

A total of 900 pupils from 29 primary schools will be part of the Civil Defence Junior Lionhearters, which was launched in 2009 for post-secondary and tertiary students.

SCDF said the purpose of these programmes is to cultivate the interest of the young in emergency preparedness and nurture them to be resilient citizens.