The Emirates Search and Rescue Team passes the international reclassification process for the heavy level
ABU DHABI, 14th February, 2018 (WAM) – The Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority announced that the “UAE Search and Rescue Team” has passed the international reclassification process for the heavy level category (Heavy USAR) from the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) of the United Nations, for the third time in a row.
This classification is considered one of the highest levels of international accreditation and comes after the team successfully passed the international evaluation and accreditation system in accordance with the highest international standards approved in the field of search and rescue in disaster situations. It confirms the advanced readiness of the UAE team in terms of qualified human competencies, specialized operational capabilities, advanced technical equipment, and command and control systems, which enables the team to carry out complex search and rescue operations in large-scale disasters, especially earthquakes and building collapses, in addition to the ability to deploy and work simultaneously in multiple locations, according to the highest standards of readiness and operational sustainability.
Brigadier General Salem Abdullah bin Barak Al Dhaheri, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, confirmed that the renewal of this international accreditation for the third time represents a strategic milestone that reflects the maturity of the search and rescue system in the UAE, and confirms the advanced position that the team has reached at the international level.
Brigadier Al Dhaheri extended his deepest thanks and gratitude to the wise leadership, which established the approach of excellence and leadership, made readiness and response a solid national priority, and supported the people of the country to be at the forefront of the ranks when performing their humanitarian duty. He thanked His Excellency Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaytoun Al Muhairi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, for his continuous support and follow-up, and his constant keenness to empower the team and provide all the capabilities that enhance its readiness and capabilities.
Al Dhaheri pointed out that the high professionalism and advanced operational efficiency that the Emirates Search and Rescue Team enjoys today is the result of the accumulation of field experience that it has acquired over the past years, especially through its participation in foreign missions and international disaster response operations, which have contributed to refining its capabilities and enhancing its readiness to work in high-risk and complex environments, in accordance with best international practices and standards.
He explained that the “heavy level” classification is an international testimony to the efficiency of the operational system in which the authority operates, and its ability to invest in the human element, employ modern technologies, and develop command and control systems, to ensure achieving the highest levels of readiness and operational sustainability.
This classification is based on a comprehensive evaluation system that includes speed of response, ability to work independently in simultaneous locations, medical and logistical readiness, and efficiency of command and control, which embodies the high professionalism of the Emirates Search and Rescue Team.
This achievement adds to the UAE’s long record in the field of international humanitarian work, and enhances its role as a reliable partner in supporting affected countries, consolidating the values of human solidarity, and responding effectively to various urgent challenges at the regional and international levels.
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