Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 26: For a group of bikers, September 19 began not with a ride, but with learning skills that could one day help save a life. Thirty riders from the Tulunadu chapter of Riding Brotherhood, a pan-India riding community, underwent a full day of practical training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid at Justice K S Hegde Charitable Hospital, Deralakatte, Mangaluru.
The programme was organized by the department of public health, Nitte (Deemed to be University), in association with Nitte Medical Simulation Centre (NU MEDISiM), K S Hegde Medical Academy, with the support of Riding Brotherhood.
Built around the idea that riders are often among the first people to reach an accident or roadside emergency, the program focused on what individuals can do during the crucial minutes before professional medical help arrives.
Participants received hands-on training in adult, child and infant CPR, use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), choking management, first aid, bleeding and wound care, burns, fractures, immobilization, shock, fainting and safe patient handling. They also worked through emergency scenarios based on situations they could encounter while riding or in everyday life.
The workshop was inaugurated in the presence of Prof (Dr) Sripada G Mehendale, Professor, department of anaesthesiology and Coordinator in-charge of NU MEDISiM, KSHEMA, Dr Shruthi K T, Assistant Coordinator, NU MEDISiM, Prof (Dr) Mackwin D’Mello, Coordinator, department of public health and chairperson of the workshop and Jupiter Lobo, Assistant Professor, department of public health and organizing secretary. Dr Ashith P C, Public Health Specialist and Public Health Professional, was also part of the programme.
The initiative brought together public health professionals and motorcycle riders with a shared focus on preparedness and road safety. The idea developed through Jupiter Lobo, who is also a biker and member of the Harley Owners Group, and his interaction with Nikhil Thingalaya, Founder and Administrator of Riding Brotherhood.
“Accidents can happen to anyone, anytime and in those critical moments, knowing what to do can make a real difference,” said Thingalaya. He noted that rider safety needs to go beyond helmets and protective equipment, particularly as bikers may find themselves among the first to respond to an accident.
“Learning CPR and first aid gives us the ability to potentially help a fellow rider, a friend, a family member or even a stranger when they need it the most,” he added.
The practical sessions were led by Prof (Dr) Sripada G Mehendale and Dr Shruthi K T, supported by Sr Judy, Sr Jacintha and Br Santhosh. Participants practised CPR and emergency response techniques under supervision, receiving individual feedback to improve technique and confidence. A pre-test and post-test were conducted to assess learning and all participants received certificates on completion.
In a special initiative, the department of public health presented each rider with a custom-designed first aid and CPR badge of honour, which can be worn on riding jackets as a visible symbol of emergency preparedness. Biker Denin Tom Abraham, the top scorer in the programme, was also presented with a safety helmet light sponsored by Phantom Code.
The programme reflects the department of public health’s larger goal of taking essential life-saving skills beyond hospitals and healthcare professionals and into the community. The department plans to extend similar CPR and first aid programs to more groups, helping build a wider network of citizens who are prepared to respond during emergencies.
For the riders, the day ended with something more valuable than kilometres covered: the confidence and skills to step forward when someone needs help.
For programme queries: publichealthworkshops@gmail.com