The Saudi Red Crescent Authority announced it has raised its alert level to maximum readiness at all its ambulance centers and command and control rooms in response to warnings regarding the rainy weather and fluctuations affecting the region. This step activates the Authority's approved emergency plans for dealing with varying weather conditions, ensuring the continued provision of high-quality ambulance services.
Enhancing operational and field capabilities
As part of its field preparations, the Authority confirmed the full readiness of all ambulance stations and the deployment of specialized teams to key locations. The Authority has allocated a substantial operational force of 134 ambulance teams equipped with the latest medical technologies, supported by 17 rapid response teams to handle emergencies during critical times. The "Tuwaiq Bus," an advanced field command unit, has also been deployed to ensure rapid coordination and incident management from the heart of the field, reflecting the significant development in the Saudi ambulance infrastructure.
The importance of proactive crisis response
These measures are of paramount importance given the geographical nature and population density of the Riyadh region, where rainy seasons necessitate close coordination among the various public safety agencies. The Red Crescent's proactive response is an integral part of the Kingdom's crisis and disaster management system. The strategic deployment of ambulance teams contributes to reducing response time, a crucial factor in saving lives, especially in cases of traffic accidents or people trapped by floodwaters and flash floods.
Safety guidelines and community awareness
In its statement, the authority stressed the need for citizens and residents to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to instructions issued by relevant authorities such as the Civil Defense and the National Center for Meteorology. The warnings included:
- Avoid approaching or attempting to cross flood channels and valleys.
- Stay away from areas where water accumulates in tunnels and low roads.
- Adhere to traffic safety rules and drive calmly during rainfall to avoid skidding.
- Make way for ambulances and emergency vehicles to enable them to reach the injured quickly.
Communication and reporting channels
The authority explained that its communication channels operate around the clock to receive reports, urging everyone not to hesitate to request assistance when needed via the unified emergency number 997. Beneficiaries can also use available smart applications such as "Is'afni" (Rescue Me), "Tawakkalna" (Trust Us), and "Absher" (Absher), which allow for highly accurate location determination and facilitate the rapid arrival of ambulance teams to those in need.
