Abu Dhabi: A new system that remotely controls traffic signals and gives Civil Defence vehicles priority when responding to an emergency call has been unveiled, the Ministry of Interior announced on Monday.
Lt Gen Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, was briefed on the new device that aims to reduce emergency vehicle response times while maintaining regular traffic flow.
In light of the occasion and in a bid to encourage teamwork among safety officials, the Integration Doctrine logo has been placed on Civil Defence vehicles.
Lt Col Mohammad Abdul Jaleel Al Ansari, director-general of Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, said that the Civil Defence is working towards keeping up to date with the latest technologies and developments in the realm of safety. One of these ways is by reducing the response time taken for Civil Defence vehicles to arrive at the scene.
Another integrated system used by emergency vehicles uses maps to identify the shortest route to a certain location — this helps reduce response times and optimise the use of resources, the Ministry of Interior said.
The UAE celebrated World Civil Defence Day on March 1.
“In the UAE, the government pays special attention to the day. The UAE has equipped the Civil Defence directorates with advanced technology using the principles of emergency operations: prevention, mitigation, preparation, response or emergency evacuation and recovery as part of national plans to protect members of the public and property,” Gulf News had reported.
The prompt and professional manner with which the UAE’s Civil Defence had responded to major incidents like The Address Hotel fire in Dubai on New Year’s Eve, reflects the country’s capabilities in handling emergency situations and crises, officials said.
