Monday: 13 September 2010:
"Rescue Team" successfully concludes its participation in EU exercise
Emirates Search and Rescue Team has returned home after its successful participation in European Union Exercise of Search and Rescue Operations, which started last Tuesday. The aim of participation was to render all types of assistance in search and rescue areas to friendly nations in case of disasters and to represent the UAE in an honorable way.
Colonel Mohammad Abdullah al Nuaimi, Director of ADP GHQ Department of Emergency and Public Safety and leader of the Team said "9 European countries participated in the exercise in addition to the UAE Team, which was the only representative of the Middle East".
"The UAE Team participation was welcomed and appreciated by European Official Authorities and Media. It contributed a lot to exchange of expertise and acquainting others with developments witnessed by the Emirates Team in terms of capabilities and performance", added Al Nuaimi.
"The participation of the Emirates Team which involved 52 officers, NCOs and personnel specialized in search and rescue and classified by the United nations as a medium team, focused on coordination to execute field work in cold weather and heavy rains with the British Civil Defence, and Search and Rescue Teams from Germany, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Denmark, Norway and Ireland", added Al Nuaimi.
According to the Exercise the Emirates Team succeeded in rescuing six victims from rubble, in more than one scenario.
"The Team participation was characterized by the preparedness of the Security Inspection Team (K9) and its interaction with other teams. The Group of Technical Support and Communications participated as part of the Team with On-Site Operations Coordination Center (OSOCC). They were provided with important directions which they should follow, in addition to exchange of expertise to reach the desired aims.”
Logistic Support Group of the Emirates Team participated through loading, supply and transport operations by "Maximus Cargo". All international participating teams appreciated the Emirates Team and its coordinating and operational efforts in collaboration with other European teams.
He concluded by saying "Participation is very important as it raises the standards of ADP personnel in different areas, and leadership, technical and administrative areas. It also increases the abilities of dealing and responding to major incidents, gaining community trust through tireless efforts to deliver best services to the community.
Emirates Search and Rescue Team comprises a number of qualified and well trained nationals. It is provided with the best and most advanced equipment and apparatus. The participation is in accordance with the memorandum of Understanding signed with the British Search and Rescue Team in March, and in line with the Five-year Strategy of ADP GHQ regarding concentration on personnel training and qualification, security, safety and gaining community trust priorities.
