How UAE's First Safety, Security Association Will Help Prepare Residents During Emergencies

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

The UAE is set to launch its first association dedicated to safety, security, and community service, focusing on multilingual awareness initiatives. The Safety and Emergency Association, headquartered in Sharjah, will bring national experts with extensive experience from crisis management teams and the Emirates Red Crescent.

The association aims to raise awareness of safety principles across all segments of society. "Safety and security are not limited to environmental disasters. A disaster can be a rumour, a war, or a crisis," said Haitham Mohammed Al Raeesi, the association's CEO.

"Our role is to raise awareness among individuals on how to act in emergencies, whether it's a fire or a personal crisis. As a non-profit organisation, our goal is to build an informed community."

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Addressing the knowledge gap

Al Raeesi explained that the association was established because of a lack of awareness about safety procedures. "There is a growing need for public safety awareness and emergency preparedness, especially as challenges increase."

The association will offer training programmes, raise community awareness, and serve as a platform for experts and interested individuals to provide solutions and recommendations.

One key initiative is training fresh graduates interested in crisis and disaster management. "We see an increasing demand for safety professionals, and we want to equip the next generation with the necessary skills," he added.

The association also aims to bridge communication gaps with non-Arabic and non-English speakers. "Many residents struggle to access safety information due to language barriers. We will have dedicated trainers who speak their languages, distribute brochures in multiple languages, and collaborate with social media influencers from various communities," Al Raeesi explained.

Red Crescent is the starting point

With his extensive experience as a researcher in crisis and disaster management and his leadership role in the Emirates Red Crescent, Al Raisi is dedicated to fulfilling the association's mission and expanding safety awareness across society.

With this expertise, it's not surprising that many members of the association share similar backgrounds.“I am a field leader in the Red Crescent, and most of our team has practical experience in crisis response and disaster management,” he noted.

To further enhance its impact, the association invites volunteers from all backgrounds, regardless of their previous knowledge of safety protocols.“We will offer training for those who are eager to contribute to community safety,” Al Raeesi added.

The Ministry of Community Empowerment officially announced the association's establishment last Wednesday, aligning with its mission to strengthen the role of non-profit organisations and enhance community-driven development in the UAE.

Strengthening Community Bonds

Dr Hind Sahoo AlSuwaidi, a board member, emphasised the importance of volunteering. "We believe in the power of volunteerism. We seek individuals with expertise in safety and emergency management and those eager to learn and spread awareness. Training programmes will be available to ensure proper qualification."

She highlighted that with over 250 nationalities residing in the UAE, reaching diverse communities through media campaigns, educational workshops in schools, and public awareness initiatives is crucial.

"We will also hold online seminars to make information accessible to everyone," she added.

Launching soon

Individuals and institutions can join the association through an online platform set to launch after Eid Al-Fitr. "We will soon unveil the association's digital identity, logo, and headquarters. The platform will offer various membership options, training programmes, events, and consultation services," AlSuwaidi said.

Year of the Community

The association's launch coincides with the 'Year of the Community' 2025 initiative, which promotes unity, collaboration, and cultural heritage preservation. The national initiative, supported by various governmental and private entities, focuses on volunteerism and impactful projects that reinforce collective responsibility.

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