The Ministry of Interior, represented by the Civil Defense General Headquarters, announced that it will be organizing the UAE International Fire Fighter Challenge 2014. The challenge, which tests firefighting and rescue skills, will be one of the highlights of the 2014 International Exhibition for Security and National Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi 2014) set to take place on April 1-3, 2014 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
This first-of-its-kind event in the Middle East, Europe and Africa, is being organized by UAE-based fire and rescue management firm 911 Occupational Safety and Fire Fighting Training, under the patronage of Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. It is a series of unique motivational competitions that test firefighters’ basic fitness skills, stamina and innovation, as well as their capacity to exchange know-how with their colleagues, and raise awareness of the dangers of fire.
The competition is expected to draw a significant turnout of participants from all over the world, as they compete for prizes totaling 150,000 dollars. Registration for the competition will be open as of February 1st and will continue until mid-March. Companies and institutions wishing to participate in the competition can apply online, on the company's website: http://911-challenge.com.
Major General Staff Dr. Obeid Al Kutbi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for ISNR 2014 stressed that organizing such competitions aims at developing firefighters’ skills and encouraging fair competition amongst them, in terms of speed, skills and fitness. It also encourages them to showcase skills in decision-making response in cases of emergencies, particularly fires and accidents, given that a few seconds can spell the difference between life and death for victims.
"Providing security and safety requirements tops the Ministry of Interior’s list of priorities, as it relentlessly seeks to protect society,” noted Major General Al Kutbi. He added that the ministry constantly endeavors to increase awareness and knowledge of the public, and to acquaint them with the means to professionally handle cases of fires and accidents, given that knowledge is a strong weapon is any fight.
Major General Al Kutbi had chaired a meeting attended by all members of the Committee, to discuss the latest developments and preparations for the 2014 International Exhibition for Security and National Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi 2014). Major General Al Kutbi urged everyone to work as one team to achieve the coveted goals, and showcase the best techniques and available equipment during this important event, while educating the public, schools and university students in particular.
For his part, Major General Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Civil Defense Acting General Commander-in-chief emphasized that civil defense duties do not only include firefighting. “Civil Defense staff members are also active advocates seeking to raise awareness and spread knowledge among community members, to ensure the highest levels of safety and protection,” said Major General Al Matroushi. He also noted that this world-class championship provides the opportunity for civil defense staff members and society segments to get acquainted with the best practices applicable in this area, which contribute to safeguarding life and property.
On the same note, Mohammed Al Ahmadi, General Manager of 911 Occupational Safety and Fire Fighting Training Company, expressed his heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the police leadership for supporting and sponsoring the competition. He also thanked the participating institutions and entities fo