UAE- Video: RAK Civil Defence is 'fastest' in world, claims official

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) The average time taken by the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Defence in responding to fire incidents is lesser than the world average of eight minutes, claims Captain Omar Mattar, head of the civil protection branch at the department.

Mattar said firefighters in the emirate take just 7.3 minutes in responding to fire incidents.

Firefighters in RAK receive "intensive and advanced training on a regular basis to sharpen their skills and boost their response time to fire and emergency reports", he added.

Talking about new fire safety regulations that will come into effect soon, Captain Mattar said: "Smoke and gas leak detectors will be mandatory in all buildings from 2018. These will be connected with the control panels to sound fire alarms on time. All houses will be required to secure emergency exits."

The department will soon start surprise inspection visits to all houses and companies to ensure their compliance with the safety rules.

Recently, the RAK Civil Defence produced a special video to boost public awareness on the different types of fire extinguishers.

Residents need to be aware of the different types, and determine the right extinguisher to use to put out a particular type of blaze, an official said. "Having the right information and training on fire extinguishing helps put out flames quickly and efficiently, and accordingly reduce human casualties and financial loses."

Ahmed Shaaban Originally from Egypt, I have been in Dubai since December 2005. Before coming here, I worked as an English language instructor, chief En/Ar translator, proofreader, reporter in Egypt and Qatar. I have also worked as a reporter, correspondent and simultaneous translator with two satellite channels in Dubai. I have a masters degree in media, Cairo University, 2014, a bachelor degree in English language and translation, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1996, and three post-graduate diplomas in English language and Instruction. With over 19 years of experience in translation, interpretation, EFL instruction, and reporting. I am interested in technology, aviation, politics, as well as community, parliament and defence issues. I enjoy reading, writing, exercising, and surfing the web.

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