Items issued
Learn about some training equipment and items you will be issued with. Check out the list on this page.
Last updated 22 July 2025
When you enlist as a full-time National Serviceman (NSF), the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) will issue you with all the equipment and personal effects that you will need, including personal items such as uniforms, field pack and boots. There is no need for you to purchase any of these items prior to enlistment and you are advised to keep your personal belongings to a minimum when you report for enlistment.
Take a look at the full list of items you will be issued with on your enlistment day. Some of the more commonly used rescue operations and non-operational items are also briefly introduced below to help you get acquainted with life as an NSF in SCDF.
Useful items issued
Admin water bottle
Black shoe polish and shoe brush
Body and foot powder
Digital thermometer
Epaulette
Field pack
Physical training shorts
Poncho
Rescue gloves
Rescue goggles
Round neck t-shirt
Running singlet
SCDF Crest
SCDF towel
SCDF belt
Socks
Swimming trunks
Water bottle and water bottle bag
Additional information about some items
Body and foot powder
The powder effectively absorbs body and foot perspiration, keeping the body dry and comfortable. It also kills bacteria, thereby reducing body odour.
Epaulette
The epaulette that the recruits receive will be for their No. 4 uniform. This is worn during their day-to-day training and during parades. The epaulette is worn on the shoulders of the uniforms and displays the rank insignia of the officer.
Field pack
The field pack is issued to the recruits upon enlistment. It is used for all occasions, ranging from the classroom to rescue lessons, and for every book-out.
Rescue gloves and goggles
Trainees will be using the rescue gloves and goggles during their rescue lessons. These are to ensure their safety during rescue training.
SCDF Crest
The International Civil Defence triangle symbolises the three main areas of Civil Defence - fire safety, first aid, and rescue and evacuation. The state shield is set on the triangle garlanded by a laurel of leaves, signifying the SCDF as a national organisation. The green laurel, with a red ribbon, represents the honour of service. This is supported by a blue banner with the inscription "Civil Defence Singapore". Blue stands for loyalty and dedication to the nation and citizens.
Equipping a fire fighter for operations
Firefighting Helmet
The primary purpose of the firefighting helmet is to protect the firefighter’s head from falling debris and collisions with fixtures in confined spaces. Meanwhile, the reflective visor protects the firefighter’s face from radiant heat, and the helmet mounted torchlight provides hands free lighting in low light conditions.
Breathing Apparatus Mask
The breathing apparatus mask is essential in environments filled with smoke and harmful gases. The tight seal on the firefighter’s face ensures that only clean air supplied by the breathing apparatus set passes into the mask. The panoramic anti-fog visor gives a clear and unobstructed view of the firefighter’s environment, while a side-mounted amplifier allows clear verbal communication.
Flash Hood
The flash hood is made of flame-resistant material. The firefighter wears it over the breathing apparatus mask and under the helmet to protect the head, neck, and ears from steam and flash fires.
Firefighting Bunker Gear
The bunker gear covers most of the firefighter’s body and insulates against high ambient temperatures. It is flame resistant and serves as a moisture barrier to keep the firefighter dry. The reflective strips make the firefighter visible in low light conditions.
Firefighting Gloves
The gloves are made of a tough, fire-resistant material that protects the firefighter’s hands against flames, heat, abrasions, cuts, and impact. The integrated moisture barrier keeps hands dry, and offers resistance to the entry of harmful chemicals and blood borne pathogens. The design and materials used maintain the flexibility, comfort, and dexterity of the user’s hands.
Firefighting Boots
The full leather construction, with strategically placed padding and steel toe and sole plates, protects the foot from debris while maintaining high levels of comfort. A water proof membrane and moulded insole keep feet dry and comfortable.