Professional Documents
Culture Documents
3 Protection Against
Acts of Sabotage
6 Caring for People with
Special Needs
Your Guide for Emergencies
National Media Council License
510 / 2013
Table of Contents
During Natural Disasters And Power Outages 7 Caring For People With Special Needs 115
Preamble
Protection is a set of cognitive principles, values and practices that people resort to when they face hazards
or accidents or when they expect their occurrence. The purpose is to ward off danger or, in case it occurs,
to minimize its intensity and adverse effects.
Effective protection starts with preparedness which constitutes “the most important step towards protection”
as well as the foundation of protective measures which, if applied accurately and consistently, lead to better
protection of both people and property, and hence of the country and its assets.
In this guidebook, we present you with a series of concepts and methods which will help you, in different
cases of emergency, to avoid the dangers that might threaten your own life and safety as well as the life and
safety of your family and environment, or that you might need to address while on the road, at school or at
work.
This guidebook also shows you how to protect your property as well as the individual and collective
property of others, through instructions and advice that correspond to the different types and natures of
hazards likely to occur in times of peace, war, turmoil and disasters.
Additionally, it introduces you to the best and most recent methods of protecting yourself and helping others
through a series of first-aid instructions on how to stop bleeding, treat burns and fractures or resuscitate
cardiac arrest or suffocation sufferers.
This guidebook offers advice on how to ensure personal safety during fires and how to deal with various
building components such as installations and equipment.
You can learn how to deal with emergencies in times of peace, i.e. natural disasters and sudden power
outages, and how to stock up on food supplies.
It also offers instructions on measures that should be taken in times of war to avoid crises, in terms of
consumption levels, blood donation, warnings, shelters and personal defence.
In particular, the guidebook focuses on the importance of a “previously prepared emergency kit”, and helps
you to avoid potential chemical and biological terrorist threats as well as bomb attacks.
Finally, it explains in detail how to care for people with special needs in cases of emergency.
And Power Outage
Natural Disasters
1 − Natural Disasters And
Power Outages
Lightning 8
Floods 10
Tsunami 17
Landslides 21
Power Outages 23
Lightning
Lightning is a dazzling light that suddenly appears in the sky in turbulent weather. It is a massive natural
electrical discharge resulting from the collision between two clouds, one with negative electric charge and
the other with positive electric charge. The light is followed by a booming sound known as “thunder”.
Together, lightning and thunder form a “thunderbolt”.
Lightning is usually harmless because most of its charges do not reach the Earth. But in some cases, if it is
strong enough, it can uproot a tree, destroy a chimney or even kill a person or an animal.
However, it has been shown that most of those who were struck by lightning were usually taking shelter
under a tree, and this is the most dangerous thing to do when a thunderstorm breaks out because trees and
high-rise buildings actually conduce thunderbolts. Consequently, the roofs of buildings should be equipped
with lightning rods; metal chains that absorb electricity and divert their fatal charges to the centre of the
Earth.
Lightning rods absorb the charges and scatter them peacefully into the ground, away from the building. The
massive energy of a thunderbolt is capable of destroying anything that stands in its way.
Natural Disasters And Power Outage | 9
In case you are at home Head inside a building or a vehicle When thunder roars do not...
• Avoid taking a shower, because the • In open spaces or forests, stay on • Use the phone and electric devices
pipelines and bathroom installations lower grounds, for example in a and equipment.
may conduct electricity from place where shrubs grow densely. • Stand under high trees.
lightning. • In open spaces, curl up by crawling • Stay outside or in elevated places.
• Avoid using telephones with cords, on the floor. • Touch metallic objects.
except in case of emergency. • If you happen to be out at sea, head • Get close to metal fences, pipes and
Cordless and cellular phones are to the shore. railways.
safer to use in such conditions. • If you are driving a bicycle,
• Unplug electric devices and motorbike or a golf cart, step away
equipment (such as computers) from it.
from power sources and turn off • If you are gathering with other
your air conditioners because the people, go your separate ways.
energy resulting from lightning can
cause serious damage.
10 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Floods
Floods are a natural phenomenon caused by the rise in the level of watercourses; the faster the water flow,
the greater the floods and vice versa. A flood is the overflowing of a large amount of water beyond its
normal confines over what is normally dry land. Floods can also occur due to the ebb and flow of tides.
Floods are often caused by the following:
• Heavy rainfall.
• Strong thunderstorms and cyclones.
• Dam collapse releasing great quantities of water.
• Sudden rise in sea level as a result of heavy rain or thawing snow on mountain tops, following earthquakes
on land or at sea (tsunami…) or a change in the water pressure at the bottom of the oceans.
Most floods are harmful, because they are potentially damaging to people and property (houses, cattle,
cars...) as well as public utilities (buildings, bridges, tunnels, telephone lines, electrical power...). They also
cause erosion to the upper layer of the soil. Floods often claim many lives due to drowning and electric
shocks or even epidemics and diseases that tend to spread due to the potential pollution of water. Floods
can also lead to severe food shortage, particularly in inaccessible areas besieged by water, or as a result of
the submersion and destruction of crops.
Experts and meteorological centres can predict floods by monitoring the different meteorological fluctuations,
and can consequently issue warnings about possible dangers. However, it is imperative for people to take
individual and collective precautionary measures to avoid any serious consequences. Speedy and efficient
evacuation must be at the forefront of such measures.
Natural Disasters And Power Outage | 11
In case you are outside In case you are in a car In all cases:
• Stand away from trees. • Stop as soon as you safely can. • Try to remain calm, do not panic
• Stay in an open space until the • Stay away from tunnels and and try to help those around you.
earthquake stops. bridges, and do not get out of the • Avoid calling the emergency
• Stay away from upper or lower car. number (999) to reduce pressure on
passageways. the lines.
• Stay away from buildings and outer • Listen to the radio or the TV to
walls. follow up on the latest news and
• Stay away from high lampposts as developments.
well as electricity and telephone
lines.
14 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Search for the injured, help them • Check the building to ensure that In case evacuation is necessary
out and give them first aid, or get there are no new structural defects, • Do not use the elevators; leave
help by calling Civil Defence or the such as cracks in the walls, floors, in an orderly manner using the
police if need be. balcony railings and columns, staircase.
• Search for the missing and check and report any such defects to the • Before leaving your house:
on your family and friends. relevant authorities (Municipality - Turn off all lights and electrical
• Do not walk around barefoot. Department/ Building Inspection appliances.
• Watch out for gas, water and Section, if you are living in a - Close all gas sources and water
sewage leaks and report them. private or public building, or the faucets.
• Check for broken wires and unplug maintenance units in your area). - Gather all your family.
electrical appliances from power - Get your previously packed kit.
sources. - Close the door, and insure your
• Clean up any toxic leaks. house.
• Listen to the local news and follow
instructions.
• Try not to use the telephone.
• Try to lean on a nearby wall where rescuers can easily • Sufficient amount of drinking water as well as canned
reach you. and dried food to last a whole week (to be used and
• Cover your nose and mouth with a piece of cloth or with replaced in order not to perish).
your hand. • A can opener and a matchbox.
• Do not use a lighter or light a match. • A first-aid kit containing the necessary first-aid tools and
• Use a whistle (if you have one available) or shout as loud medicines for the whole family.
as you can so that rescuers know where you are. • A first-aid manual.
• A small radio, a torch and spare batteries.
• A fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.
• An adjustable wrench to repair gas or water leaks.
• A portable escape ladder.
• Police, Emergency and Civil Defence telephone
numbers.
16 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Tips to increase your chances of survival if you are trapped under rubble
General directives in case you are trapped under rubble:
• Protect your head and face from shattered glass or objects that might fall from above by covering your
head with a coat, a blanket, newspapers, a box, etc.
• Stay away from hazardous areas or unstable objects and, if possible, wear a pair of thick shoes to protect
your feet from shattered glass.
• Lean on any wall free of glass windows or installed shelves or crawl under a counter, desk, solid table or
firm bed where you will have space to breathe and will be protected from falling objects.
• If you are in a safe place, stay put. Do not use the staircase or the elevators because there is a high risk of
rubble falling from the staircase or exits getting blocked or of power outage occurring in the elevators.
• Use a flashing light to attract attention and do not turn on the lights or light matches, fires, gas ovens, etc.
unless you are sure there are no risks of gas leaks.
• If you are trapped under rubble, move your fingers and toes from time to time to ensure the circulation of
blood and to prevent thrombosis.
• Keep your spirits up by thinking of your loved ones. This will help you fight for life and will keep you
strong.
• Stay calm, remain alert and answer the rescuers’ calls. Do not yell unnecessarily as this will only deplete
your energy.
• Attract the rescuers’ attention by using a flashing light, or by yelling if you are sure that someone is
around.
• Eat food and drink water from the fridge, if accessible.
• Cut down on your food consumption so that you have food for a longer time.
• Be careful around shattered glass and rubble.
Natural Disasters And Power Outage | 17
A tsunami is caused by severe turbulences below the surface of the water, such as earthquakes, landslides,
movements at the bottom of the oceans and underwater volcanic eruptions, in addition to nuclear explosions.
In most cases, a tsunami is due to earthquakes that occur at sea and lead to deep seafloor movements.
Tsunami waves move from their starting point in all directions through vast spaces. The tsunami wave
starts unnoticed in deep water but gains height as it reaches the shore.
A tsunami cannot be prevented nor accurately predicted, even if earthquake indicators show its actual
location. In this case, the role of geologists, oceanographers, and seismologists is limited to issuing warnings
about its impending occurrence. However, many systems are currently being developed to minimise the
effects of tsunamis.
18 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Do not just stand there, verify the warning signs that should be
heeded
• In case you are at the beach or next to the sea and feel a tremor
beneath you, immediately head to a more elevated area.
• Do not wait for a tsunami warning to be announced.
• Head to an elevated area as fast as possible, because the sudden
withdrawal of the sea level resulting from the withdrawal of the
coastline, by one kilometre or more, is considered a precursor to
a tsunami.
• Do not get close to the shore to check if it is a tsunami; get away
immediately.
• In case evacuation instructions are issued, execute them at once.
20 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Head quickly to an • Do not stay in a house • If you are on board a • Wait for the “end of
elevated area. or a building located in a boat or ship and do not emergency” signal and
low coastal area in case have enough time to get away from the area
of a tsunami warning, reach the shore, move until it becomes safe.
because they are not your boat to deeper • Do not be deceived into
safe. waters. thinking that the danger
• If you do not have • If the weather is has subsided when one
enough time to head turbulent, it might be wave has hit the shore.
to inner land or to an safer for you to leave A tsunami is not just
elevated area, go to a your boat on the dock one wave, but a series of
protected building where and head to an elevated waves that differ in size.
elevated floors of high area.
buildings constructed
with reinforced concrete
can provide you with a
safe shelter.
Natural Disasters And Power Outage | 21
Landslides
A landslide is the displacement of huge soil clods along with their components such as soil, rocks and trees.
Landslides usually occur on top of mountains, in elevated areas, in the basins or sides of valleys and on
slopes. They are of two types: downward and translational. The presence of water is not a requirement for
such displacements. Rather, landslides occur when one or more of the following conditions are met:
Power Outages
A power outage is a short- or long-term loss of electric power. It may be partial or complete and is usually
due to many reasons, of which:
• Emergency breakdowns in power stations.
• Failure in electricity lines, sub-stations or any part of the distribution system.
• Short-circuit.
• Overload of the electric grid.
• Human error or malicious act.
Power outages are a rare occurrence in the United Arab Emirates; however, we should be prepared for all
possibilities. The following are a few measures to be taken in case of a power outage:
• Take the radio and torch from the • Call the maintenance unit at the • Avoid calling Civil Defence or
previously packed emergency kit. Civil Defence or the Municipality police hotlines unless the situation
• Turn on the radio to get the latest to report people stuck in elevators is life threatening or if there is a
news. Radio news will be the most during power outage. Do not need for a rescue team.
efficient way to provide the public attempt to rescue anybody stuck • If you need to use your car, drive
with the latest developments. in an elevator because you are not slowly and be careful to other
properly trained or well-equipped people on the road.
to do so. • Make sure to keep your headlights
• People who are stuck in elevators at all times.
should remain calm, press the
“warning” button and wait for help
to arrive.
24 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Rice: 2.5 kg+ 1 kg • Dates • Dry food: Different • Drinks: Powder milk
• Cooking oil: 1 bottle • Canned food: meat/fish/ kinds of biscuits, 2 boxes - 2 containers (900 g
(±250 g) legumes, 7 different cans (250 g each) each) for children
(±400 g per can) under 6 months
• Canned vegetables: 7 - 1 container (900 g)
different cans (±400 g for children from 7
per can) months until 6 years
- Sugar: 1 bag (500 g)
- Malt drink, 1 box
(±400 g)
War Emergencies
2 − War Emergencies
War Emergencies 28
Water Distribution 29
Food Rationing 29
Gas Rationing 30
Blood Donation 31
Defensive Precautions 40
28 | Your Guide for Emergencies
War is against human nature because it leads to casualties, destruction and poverty, and spreads fear and
unrest among all people. Nations are not war-inclined by nature, but rather tend to avoid war by all means.
For this reason, they attempt to find peaceful solutions to any disputes arising among them, particularly
when the disputes involve a party that looks towards the lands and riches of others.
Hence, no matter the reasons or motives, wars remain an exceptional case for humans, just like surgical
operations. Disputes should be resolved by dialogue and resorting to justice.
But with wars and armed conflicts becoming widespread around the world, many countries might not be
spared.
When a catastrophe occurs, it occurs without warning, and may affect each and every person and their daily
lives. Besides the casualties and the destruction they leave behind, wars lead to shortage of basic goods and
services.
For this reason, all countries resort to emergency measures to help provide their people with their basic
necessities so that life continues as normally as possible. However, your chances of survival might be badly
affected if you are not acquainted with such measures.
War emergencies
... To tell you the truth, there is no need to pass through unnecessary hardships, because emergency
measures for facing wars are quite easy to understand and follow. If you get acquainted with them as from
today, you will surely be prepared for the worst. All you have to do is take part in these measures and
get acquainted with them whenever the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority
organises emergency drills in your area.
War Emergencies | 29
Water distribution
• In case of failure in water installations, water
distribution points will be established next to your
place of residence.
• Bring containers to the nearest water distribution
point and store water in an organised manner.
Food rationing
Gas rationing
Blood donation
When you hear an appeal for blood donation: What you must bring:
• Head to the nearest blood donation centre and register. • Bring along your ID, medical card and registration
card… From there on, the doctor or nurse will take care
of you.
32 | Your Guide for Emergencies
P.S.: When need be, you can call the competent authorities
(Emergency or Civil Defence) on 999.
War Emergencies | 33
Close all gas and water sources as Bring basic necessities such as water Head quickly and calmly to the
well as all vents from which dust can and medicines (if need be) to the shelter.
leak. shelter.
Stay away from walls and doors in the Listen to the radio or television to When you hear the “end of
shelter and do not lean against them. follow any important announcements emergency” signal, you can leave
from authorities. the shelter and return to your normal
daily life.
War Emergencies | 35
Besides the lighting, electricity, telephone, television and radio openings, there are two air vents in the wall
of the shelter.
In times of peace:
The air vents provide air for the daily use of the home shelter.
Leave at least 25% of the total air vent uncovered, to prevent anyone that accidentally gets stuck in the
shelter from suffocating. This condition is set in the “authorised and unauthorised works” list found on the
inside of the home shelter door.
36 | Your Guide for Emergencies
To identify public shelters, pay attention to the signs indicating their locations. Information on public
shelter locations is available on the website.
• Move promptly • Move with your • If you are driving • If you are not close • Do not bring along
without pushing family to avoid a car, stop on the to a shelter, take bulky or flammable
others, and follow any worrying, and side of the road, cover wherever objects to the
the instructions help persons with lock your car and you are (such as shelter.
given by the special needs, head to the nearest in a pedestrian
persons in charge. children and shelter. tunnel).
elderly people.
War Emergencies | 37
• Enter the shelter • Stay with others • Remain calm • Do not light any • If you face any
directly and do not and do not roam and listen to the cooking fire. problems, inform
block entrances or around. instructions issued the persons in
passageways. by Civil Defence charge.
officers or to
the radio or the
television.
• Leave the shelter only when ordered to do so by the • Move with your entire family, be patient and do not push
competent authorities. others or run.
38 | Your Guide for Emergencies
If you happen to be outside your house and you hear the “warning” signal, run to the nearest public shelter
or hideaway such as the vestibule of a building, a tunnel or a pedestrian tunnel. In case none of these
facilities are found nearby, or if you are unable to reach them within minutes, search for and try to reach the
following places: trenches, water drainage canals or open sewers.
War Emergencies | 39
Preventing damage
Although we cannot control the use of weapons such as bombs and projectiles that cause damage, there are
several precautionary measures that can be taken to prevent, or at least minimise, their effects.
Defensive Precautions
Blackout measures
Although blackouts do not prevent enemy air raids or bombings, they can diminish their chances of
success by affecting their capacity of determining and identifying targets. In such cases, follow the below
instructions:
• Turn off all external lights. • Cover all passages of internal • Dim your car lights to a minimum
lights, such as windows and doors by covering them with black tape
using curtains and other means. and leaving only a small part
uncovered.
Protection Against
Acts of Sabotage
3 − Protection Against
Acts of Sabotage
Threats of Chemical Attacks 45
Decontamination Procedures 58
The term “terrorist” indicates all those who carry out operations aiming at
instilling fear and terror in peaceful people. Chemical risk
If we look at terrorism as an image of violence witnessed by the international
community since long, and developing with the progress of the community and
different social relations… we notice that terrorist attacks, regardless of their
atrocity, have never been as dangerous as they are today. Indeed, they are gaining
momentum and claiming innumerable lives, particularly with the appearance of
new forms of terrorism using scientific and technological innovations.
Consequently, “terrorism” has become one of the most popular terms worldwide,
in a time where crime rates are soaring and crimes are taking increasingly Biological risk
diversified forms. Hence, terrorism has become a perturbing and disturbing
reality for many communities, nations and countries.
Acts of terrorism are characterised by the terror they instil along with the violence
they cause, such as explosions, destruction of public facilities, wreckage of
railways and bridges, poisoning of potable water, propagation of infectious
diseases and mass murders.
Terrorism knows no boundaries; no country is immune to its risks. And based Radiation risk
on the 9/11 terrorist attacks, we can easily conclude how well organised and
resourceful terrorists can be in our times.
Explosives
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 45
There is growing concern about the potential use of chemical, biological, radiological or explosive materials
by terrorists against innocent civilians. Thus, it is necessary to understand the nature of the threats and to
become acquainted with the protective measures that can be taken to anticipate the risks of terrorism.
Attacking by a chemical agent means the intentional release of a chemical agent with the aim of killing
people, seriously harming them or hampering their movement. Most chemical agents are toxic upon
inhalation, and might lead to injury if they come into contact with the eyes or skin. Terrorists can use
many such chemical agents in their attacks, such as Sarin Gas, Sulphur Mustard, Hydrogen Cyanide and
Phosgene. These materials target the nervous system, the skin and the respiratory system and have each
their specific symptoms:
Sarin
Sulphur Mustards
These include Mustard Gas, a chemical warfare agent
that poisons the cells and is capable of causing big
blisters on the exposed skin. Contrary to its name, this
agent is not a gas but rather a liquid that turns into
vapour.
Hydrogen Cyanide
Commonly known as Prussic Acid throughout history, Hydrogen
Cyanide is a chemical compound that takes the form of a highly toxic
colourless liquid with a boiling point a bit above room temperature.
Hydrocyanic acid can be either in gas or liquid form with a distinctive
smell and very weak acidity. It burns in the air in a blue flame and
melts in water and in alkaline solutions. A cyanide ion that enters
the body by inhalation or through the digestive tract leads to cases of
acute, or chronic, poisoning which might be lethal. If cyanide enters
the blood circulation, haemoglobin turns into cyanhemoglobin, an
ineffective form of transportation of oxygen taken in through the
respiratory tract to the tissues. cyanide poisoning can be acute or
chronic and cause- as the case may be- general weakness, headaches,
migraines, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, low blood
pressure, convulsions and coma, which might lead to death.
Phosgene
It is a colourless, heavy, smelly and highly toxic gas that reacts with
iron to turn into a reddish yellow toxic material. It severely damages the
respiratory system, leading to suffocation. The Germans used it against
the Allied Forces in 1915 during WWI.
With the increasing tensions, the widespread disputes and the propagation
of violence, wars and terrorism worldwide, few countries are now safe
from their weapons, effects and tragedies. One of such threats is chemical
warfare.
If you are inside a building: If you are outside: If you are in your car:
• Avoid the contaminated area and • Cover your mouth and nose with a • Get out of your car at once, and
get out of there fast. handkerchief or a piece of cloth. go home or get into any nearby
• Cover your mouth and nose with • Do not move in the direction of building.
a piece of cloth that allows you to the wind that might be carrying • If you cannot do so, close the doors
breathe (such as a wet towel). hazardous chemical materials. and air vents of your car and, if
• Find a shelter or get into any possible, close the air conditioner
building as fast as you can and try vents using a tape and drive away
to get protection there. from the contaminated area.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a
piece of cloth.
• Listen to the radio to follow
the latest developments and
instructions issued by the
authorities.
50 | Your Guide for Emergencies
If you have watery eyes or irritated skin, or have trouble breathing, you may have been exposed to a
chemical agent. In this case, you should do the following:
• Take off your clothes at once and put them in a bag to throw
them away.
• Find a water source and wash yourself with plenty of water
using soap if possible.
• Try to get medical attention as soon as possible.
• Quickly identify the area where you suspect that a biological agent is present and get away from it.
• Cover your nose and mouth with layers of cloth to filter the air while allowing you to breathe.
• Call 999.
• State your address and details in case there is a need to reach you immediately.
• Shower thoroughly with soap and water at the earliest chance and change into a clean set of clothes.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 55
• In case you or any • If you think that • It is imperative to protect • Maintain a safe distance
family member notice someone has your respiratory system from a contaminated
any pathological been exposed to a if you have to come near person and avoid direct
symptoms or develop biological attack, a person suspected to contact.
a fever, try to contact a take precautionary have been exposed to a • Request medical
physician designated by measures and contact the biological agent. assistance and observe
authorities. authorities for assistance. the health authorities
directives.
56 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Anthrax
Anthrax is an acute disease caused by the
bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Most forms of the
disease are lethal, and it affects both humans
and animals. There are effective vaccines
against anthrax, and some forms of the disease
respond well to antibiotic treatment.
Anthrax commonly infects wild and domesticated herbivorous mammals that ingest or inhale the spores
while grazing. Ingestion is thought to be the most common route by which herbivores contract anthrax.
Carnivores living in the same environment may become infected by consuming infected animals. Diseased
animals can spread anthrax to humans, either by direct contact (e.g., inoculation of infected blood to broken
skin) or by consumption of a diseased animal's flesh.
Anthrax spores can be produced in vitro and used as a biological weapon. Anthrax does not spread directly
from one infected animal or person to another; it is spread by spores. These spores can be transported by
clothing or shoes. The body of an animal that had active anthrax at the time of death can also be a source
of anthrax spores.
Anthrax in powder form isn't contagious, but it is still considered a threat to public safety. In the UAE, the
competent authorities and the Ministry of Health have taken preventive and precautionary measures to deal
with anthrax threats.
The public must remain calm and exercise caution in order to facilitate the process of identifying any
potential signs of an anthrax attack.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 57
The following are instructions on how to deal with materials suspected to contain anthrax (such as a
suspicious powdery substance):
• Do not come into direct contact with the substance. If the container is already open, immediately cover
any spilled or uncovered substances with a piece of cloth, a plastic cover, paper or a box. Do not remove
the lid.
• Do not inhale the substance or attempt to clean any spilled substance.
• Shut down any fans or localised air-conditioning units in the contaminated area or room.
• Leave the room and shut the door. Prevent others from entering the affected area.
• Head to the nearest washroom and wash your hands and any part of your skin that was exposed to the
suspicious substance with soap and water.
• Remove all your clothes and shower with soap and water. Do not use detergents or disinfectants on your
skin. Discard of your clothes in a plastic bag or wash them with detergent.
• Prepare a list of the names and contact numbers of all the people that were present in the area where the
suspected substance was present and submit the list to the police for investigation purposes.
Cordon off the area and place a cover over the suspected Thoroughly clean body parts that were exposed to the
substance. substance.
58 | Your Guide for Emergencies
onal
Pers ings
ng
Belo
Step 1/ Gather your personal Step 2/ Remove your clothes Step 3/ Shower
belongings • Remove your clothes and the • Use a sponge.
• Place your personal belongings in a remaining personal effects and • Lean forward and wash your hair
small bag. place them in a trash bag. first.
• Write your national register number • Close the bag and seal it tight with • Soak yourself in water and use the
on the bag with a marker. a piece of threat or rope. non-ionising shower liquid that is
• Place any small or important items • Discard of the trash bag by placing provided to you.
in the personal effects bag and hand it in the trash container. • Use the sponge to rub all your body
the bag to Civil Defence or the with the shower liquid with special
relevant authority. focus on your armpits and groin.
• Place any garbage in a separate bag • Dispose of the contaminated
and close it tight then proceed to the sponge in the trash bin.
showering unit. • Shower completely for two minutes
to wash off the contaminated liquid.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 59
On-site protection
Get inside your house and remain there while you follow up on news.
Chemical, biological or radioactive pollutants can be accidentally or intentionally released into the
environment. In such an occurrence, you may be asked to observe safety procedures on site. This means
you must remain in your home and take the necessary precautionary measures to ensure your protection
and the protection of your family.
Essential supplies
The following items are used for on-site safety measures and are placed in a large room with sliding
windows or doors. They are divided into two categories:
Essential supplies
Optional items
1. When on-site instructions are 3. Shut down all air-conditioning 6. If time allows, you can use trash
issued, remain calm and gather all units that draw air from the bags or plastic covers to cover any
your family members inside your outside. holes or cracks, increasing your
home. 4. Go into the room with the least level of protection.
2. Close all doors, windows and number of vents. It is preferable 7. Follow the news for more
openings. that the room contains a toilet and information or instructions from
a water source. official sources.
5. If duct tape is available, use 8. Do not leave the room unless
it to cover any visible holes your are instructed by official
around windows, doors and authorities to do so. At this point
air-conditioning vents. Use wet only, you can remove any covers
towels to cover the bottom of and open windows to allow air
doors. into your house.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 63
On-site protection measures at the workplace or at school are mostly the same as those prescribed for in
house protection measures. However, due to the complex structure of some buildings and the large number
of people present in some, previous plans are devised to predetermine the room/rooms that will be used for
on-site protection and to determine the roles and responsibilities of the persons involved in order to ensure
coordination and smooth procedures. (A sample on-site protection instructions for buildings is available on
the NCEMA website at www.ncema.gov.ae).
Essential steps:
1. Close all windows and doors and
shut down equipment and lights
to reduce heat generation.
2. Shut down all air-conditioning
equipment that draws air from
the outside.
3. Proceed to the predetermined
protection room/rooms.
4. Direct non-tenants or residents
to the protection room/rooms.
5. Seal any visible openings with
duct tape and plastic covers.
6. Listen closely to the radio or
TV for further information and
instructions.
7. When on-site protection is over,
open windows and doors and put
air-conditioning back on.
64 | Your Guide for Emergencies
In-car protection
On the street
N.B. Remember that on-site protection instructions are usually issued for several hours, not days.
It is possible that the room used for protection runs low on oxygen. If you are exposed to a
hazardous substance, report to the relevant authorities for immediate medical care.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 65
Bomb attacks are increasingly occurring in various places around the world and no one country is completely
safe. Bomb attacks can cause major fatalities as well as serious damage to property and infrastructure.
Caution and strict observance of safety measures and instructions can help in reducing fatalities and
damages.
66 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Move away from the • Warn others in your area. • Immediately call police. Evacuation of a building in
location and do not touch • Describe the suspicious case a bomb or a suspicious
or move the suspicious object: shape, size, colour, object:
object. location. 1. Leave the building
calmly and in a orderly
manner.
2. Avoid using elevators.
3. Follow the instructions
of the guards or the floor
officer.
4. Take your suitcase with
you and do not leave
any personal effects
unattended.
5. Move to the gathering
point (at least 500 metres
from the building) for the
headcount.
6. Upon leaving the
building, be aware of
emergency vehicles that
arrive at the scene.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 67
• It is essential to observe the • Do not try to mock or antagonise • An officer who receives such a call
following: the caller in any way. will deal with it seriously and will
1. The caller’s voice (tone, male or • Be polite and remain calm. immediately try to determine the
female, child or adult). • Do not spread rumours. following:
2. The language and the accent • Ask another person to call the 1. The exact location and the shape
(local or foreign). police if you haven’t done so of the bomb.
3. Speaking manner (quick, intense, yourself. 2. Detonation time and who will
emotional, angry). execute it.
4. Background noises or sounds 3. The amount and type of the
(traffic, music, announcements, explosive material.
screaming). 4. The possible causes of such
5. The person to whom you are behaviour.
required to transfer the message.
68 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Most booby-trapped parcels/letters that are delivered through the mail allow for a reasonable processing
time. In case you receive a suspicious letter/parcel, do not attempt to open it since most explosives are
designed to detonate when the outer cover or lid is removed or torn up.
• In case you are not sure of the • Evacuate the room and, if • In case an explosion goes off and
source of the letter/parcel and necessary, evacuate the building the evacuation process is affected,
you have reason to suspect that it and leave windows and doors issue instructions to redirect people
contains a bomb, treat it as a bomb open. This allows for the explosion to alternative and safer exits.
and notify the police. to spread out and reduce risks of • Listen to the radio or watch
• Place the letter/parcel in a corner projectile glass shrapnel. television for further instructions
and away from windows. • Instruct building, security personnel from official sources.
and the evacuated individuals not to
touch any suspicious objects.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 69
In case you are injured during an explosion… In case you are trapped inside a building…
• Slowly move away from the affected area if you are able • Stay where you are and protect your head and face from
to evacuate. glass shrapnel or falling objects.
• Give a sign to emergency responders to allow them to • Stay away from any objects that are not firmly fixed.
locate you if you are unable to evacuate. • Lean only on walls that have no glass windows or hanging
• Move only if necessary to avoid exacerbating your injury. shelves.
Specialised medical personnel will provide you with care • When possible, crouch under a solid and sturdy table.
and remove you from the location.
70 | Your Guide for Emergencies
In case you are trapped under rubble… In case you are away from the explosion…
• Use a flashlight if possible to signal your position to • Do not get near the affected area.
rescue workers. • Remain calm.
• Avoid any unnecessary movement. • Do not call 999 unless your have a real emergency.
• Move your fingers and toes from time to time to ensure • Listen to the radio and watch television for the latest
the circulation of blood and to prevent thrombosis. developments and instructions.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a piece of cloth to avoid
dust inhalation.
• Bang on a pipe or a wall to help rescuers pinpoint your
location.
• Whistle to alert rescuers to your location.
• Yell, but only as a last resort. Yelling could deplete your
energy and cause you to inhale a dangerous amount of
dust and fumes.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 71
Radiation is present in every aspect of our lives. It occurs naturally in the ground or it can reach us from
space. It can also be found in natural form in drinking water, in the soil or in construction material.
On the other hand, radiation can also be generated by man, such as X-Rays, and in atomic power plants or
through smoke detectors.
74 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Types of radiation
Radiation is mainly classified in two types:
1. Ionising radiation (e.g. x-rays, gamma rays), cosmic rays, Alpha particles and Beta particles.
2. Non-ionising radiation such as electromagnetic rays, radio waves, radar waves, microwaves, infrared
waves, ultraviolet rays and visible light.
The three main types of ionising radiation that are released from a dirty bomb are:
Alpha Ray
Alpha rays can be intercepted with a piece of paper or by a human body. But they can be seriously harmful
in case their fumes, which contain Alpha particles, are inhaled or absorbed through open wounds.
Beta Ray
Beta rays cannot be intercepted with paper, but their propagation can be stopped with a piece of wood or
aluminium. They can cause serious damage if they penetrate the body through the skin.
Beta rays are significantly more penetrating than Alpha rays. Some Beta ray particles can penetrate and
damage skin. They are seriously harmful if fumes or substances that release Beta rays are inhaled. Skin
may be damaged if it comes in contact with high concentrations of Beta pollutants for an extended period
of time.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 75
Gamma Ray
It is a long-range electromagnetic radiation that can be potentially damaging to body cells. Gamma rays are
the most dangerous of radiations and they are deeply penetrating. It can travel for a long distance in the air
and penetrate several inches deep inside human tissue. It is the result of nuclear reactions that often occur
in space or in radioactive elements such as uranium.
Radiation is released into the void and the air at the speed of light. It is more powerful and more penetrating
than ultra-violet and X-rays and its wavelength is significantly short. If it weren’t for the Earth’s atmosphere,
which absorbs and deflects such radiation, life on the surface of our planet would have gone extinct.
Gamma radiation can be stopped with concrete and heavily dense materials such as lead. Most materials
and clothes don’t provide protection for the skin. This type of radiation is used in the medical and the
industrial fields but in very small quantities. It destroys cancer cells.
Type of radiation
Gamma Ray γ
76 | Your Guide for Emergencies
If an explosion or radiation occurs Stay at home if the building is stable Building evacuation
near your building: If there was an explosion, or release In case of a radioactive explosion or
• Check if your building is damaged. of radiation near your building: leakage inside your building:
• If the building is stable, stay where • Check if the building was affected. • Cover your mouth and nose.
you are and close all doors and • If the building is stable, stay where • Leave the building immediately.
windows and shut down all air- you are. Close all windows and • If you weren’t exposed to radiation,
conditioning systems. doors, turn off the air conditioner move a 100 metres away upwind
• Otherwise, damaged buildings must and/or other ventilation systems. and to a safe and elevated area.
be evacuated. • Otherwise, you must vacate the • If you were exposed to radiation,
• Cover your mouth and nose and get building. wait until you are decontaminated
away to a 100-metre distance from • Cover your nose and mouth and by emergency personnel.
the direction of the wind and to an walk away at least 100 metres,
elevated and safe area. from the direction of the wind, and
to an elevated area of the danger
zone.
78 | Your Guide for Emergencies
N.B. Listen to local radio or watch local television channels for instructions from official sources
regarding radiation leakage. You will be informed of specialised centres where you could report
radiation or get tested for radiation as well as any safety measures.
Protection Against Acts of Sabotage | 79
• Follow instructions issued by • Follow the instructions at • Alert the train/bus attendant in case
official sources. emergency exits on both ends of you notice a suspicious material.
• In case of a problem on the train or the train to safely open the doors • Do not panic if you notice any
the bus, do not panic. and exit the vehicle. suspicious material in the vehicle.
• Listen carefully to announcements • During evacuation, electric power • Notify the train/bus attendant. He/
and follow the instructions of will be shut down in passageways she will assess the situation and
personnel. to ensure safety. Emergency direct passengers to another train/
• Care for young and elderly air-conditioning and lighting will bus if need be.
passengers. be provided on trains and inside
• Do not try to force the door open or tunnels.
to jump off the train or the bus.
4 − First Aid
How to Stop Bleeding 86
First Aid
How to Treat Fractures 88
What is first-aid?
First-aid refers to the provision of initial care for an illness or injury. It is usually performed by non-expert,
but trained personnel, using a series of simple and in some cases, potentially life-saving techniques, until
definitive medical treatment can be accessed.
A paramedic is the person performing the initial first-aid using simple skills and techniques. Paramedics
don't need advanced medical training, they simply need to acquire first aid skills that can be performed with
minimal equipment.
The concept of initial first-aid dates back to the eleventh century in Europe, during the Crusades when
teams of knights were trained to assist the injured during battle. Offering care and assistance to war victims
has been practiced in many oriental civilisations for centuries. Nursing and administering first-aid were
among the main duties of women in times of war.
Conflicts and wars played an essential role in developing the concept of first-aid assistance. Organisations
were established with the sole role of providing initial healthcare assistance such as the Red Cross and the
Red Crescent organisations.
With the ever-growing variation and proliferation of hazards, individuals sought to acquire first-aid skills
and most people today keep a medicine cabinet in their homes, cars or workplace.
Catastrophes usually cause large numbers of casualties that require medical attention at specialised
establishments. UAE emergency management agencies work around the clock to ensure that their first aid
squads can provide emergency medical services at any time and any place across the country.
A medical emergency is an illness or an injury that may lead to serious complications or death unless they
are promptly attended to. These include bleeding, loss of consciousness, heart attacks, severe burns, etc.
86 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Place the palm of the hand or fingers over the bleeding area and press it directly
First Aid | 87
• Run cool water over the area or immerse the burn in cool
water for at least 10 minutes to stop it from spreading and to
reduce pain and swelling.
• Remove any rings, watches, belts or anything that could
further irritate the burn before it swells.
Do not put lotion or ointment on the affected area N.B. For severe burns, call 999
for assistance.
88 | Your Guide for Emergencies
If the victim is able to walk In case the patient is of a • If the victim is lightweight • If the victim is
with some help: lightweight: you could use and conscious: carry the lightweight: use the “crib
• Use the “human crutch” the so called “firefighter victim on your back if carry” where you place
method to move a lift”. This way is suitable he/she is able to hold on your arms under the
conscious victim who is for lightweight patients, using his arms. To ensure victim’s shoulders and
able to walk with some whether they were the victim’s stability, you legs.
assistance. conscious or unconscious. must hold him/her firmly
• Hold the victim firmly All you have to do is to by placing your arms Remark: You must first
around the waist and wrap follow these steps: under his/her knees while make sure to fix the
his/her arm around your he/she crosses his/her patient’s neck before
shoulders allowing him/ 1. Crouch down. arms over your chest. moving them, using the
her to lean on you. 2. Place one of the victim’s “Neck Collar” in the case
arms across your there is no pending danger
shoulder and lift. that requires the patient’s
3. For more stability, wrap immediate evacuation
your arms around the before ensuring the fixation
victim’s legs and grasp of the neck.
his/her other arm.
90 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Turn the patient so that his/her face Check if the patient is breathing or Now, start the process of breathing
is upwards, while ensuring that his/ not. from mouth to mouth.
her neck is safe and fixed. 4- Keep the position of the head raised 6- Then, sense the pulse by putting
1- Check the patient’s condition by by raising the jaws. Put your face two or three fingers on the external
patting gently with both hands close to the patient’s mouth and watch side of the neck for a period not
his/her chest, look, listen and look for
(palms) on his shoulders. any signs of breathing for a period not exceeding (10) seconds.
• Ask for help by paging or calling exceeding (10) seconds. • In the absence of pulse, start the
(999) for an ambulance. 5- If there was no sign of breathing, start respiration process from mouth to
• Lay the patient down with his face applying artificial respiration from mouth at a rate of 12 times each
upwards, on a flat and firm surface, mouth to mouth. minute until the patient starts
and move his head and body at the • Keep an open air passage, and close breathing normally. After that, in
same time. the patient’s nose by using two fingers case there was no pulse, start the
and blow the air into his mouth twice
2- Open the patient’s mouth by raising by taking two deep breath as far as cardiopulmonary resuscitation
his upper jaw slightly. you can stretch your rib cage in case process immediately, abiding by
3- Push the patient’s lower jaw down. the patient was a child or an adult. If the following exact steps (steps 7
If you notice any objects in the the patient is an infant, give him two to 10).
mouth or throat remove them. short and quick breaths.
First Aid | 91
Place the heels of your hands Do not remove your hands from Stop compressions immediately
on the chest and avoid applying the chest in between compressions when pulse returns and check for
pressure on the ribs 8. Pushing the patient’s head back breathing
7. If no pulse can be felt, apply chest to open the air passage. Pinch 10. The moment pulse returns,
compressions as follows: the patient’s nose and place your immediately stop compressions
• Place the your lower palm on mouth over the patient’s mouth and check for breathing. If you
the middle of the breastbone, and give him a couple of breaths. can’t detect breathing, continue
keeping your fingers away from 9. Aim to complete nine cycles of the artificial respiration until
the ribs. Put the lower palm of 30 compressions/2 breaths in two breathing returns to normal.
the other hand on top of this minutes. Check for pulse at the
hand. end of every five cycles.
• Keep your elbow straight and
press down firmly and quickly to
achieve a downwards movement
of 4 to 5 cm then relax and
repeat the compression. Aim for
P.S. Performing CPR and artificial respiration effectively
15 compressions per 10 seconds.
requires training and frequent practice on resuscitation
dummies.
92 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Defibrillator Device:
A «defibrillator» is a medical device used in treating serious
heartbeat disorders, such as fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia
as well as non-serious heartbeat disorders such as flutter and atrial
fibrillation. The device helps eliminate the disorders the electrical
signal transfer across the heart by directing a higher electrical
current than the one generated in it due to the activity of the heart
muscle cells, so that it stops all the random electrical signals.
Thus, the heart electrically returns to the zero point and the beats
returns to normal.
There are many types of Defibrillator Devices, according to the
desired function and need. It is divided into monophasic and
biphasic defibrillators. In the monophasic device, the electrical
current moves in one direction from one pole to the other. In the
biphasic device, the electrical current moves bi-directionally.
These devices change the current direction in a short period. It is
considered more effective in eliminating ventricular fibrillation.
The percentage of patient recovery by using biphasic devices may
increase from 28% to nearly 40%.
AMBULANCE AMBULANCE
1- Shout in the face of the patient, or pat on his shoulders 2. Call the emergency services on 999 and get an AED
strongly to check if the patient is conscious or not. device.
3. Begin AED resuscitation. 4. Fix the defibrillator as shown in the picture on the device,
and follow the its own voice instructions while continuing
the breathing resuscitation procedures.
First Aid | 95
5. Click on the defibrillator to direct the shock, making sure 6. Continue CPR and check for pulse.
that all those around are far from anything connected to the
patient.
Remark: Some
traditional devices
depend on the operator
instructions. In this
case start applying an
electrical shock when
the device gives the
complete charging
signal.
Look out for signs of choking Wrap your arms around the Wrap your arms around the chest of
1. Ask the patient if he/she is patient’s waist to perform the obese person or obese/pregnant
choking. abdominal thrusts women and apply the chest thrust.
2. Clenched fingers are a sign of 4. How to apply the abdominal thrusts: 5- If the patient was obese or a pregnant
choking. • Stand behind the patient and wrap women in her final months, you
3. If the patient can talk, breathe or your arms around the patient’s should apply the chest thrust.
cough, do not interfere to stop waist. 6- How to apply the chest thrust.
him/her from trying to remove • Hold the fist of one hand with your • Stand behind the patient and
the foreign object obstructing his/ other hand and put the side of your put your arms under his armpits,
her breathing. Otherwise, perform thumb in the middle or a little bit surrounding his chest.
• Hold the fist of one hand with your
abdominal thrusts until the foreign above the navel.
other hand and put the side of your
object is removed. • Press the fist of your hand on the
thumb above the center of the chest
patient’s abdomen strongly, with
bone.
quick thrusts inwards and then
• Thrust quickly and backwards.
upwards in a J shape or « »لshape • In case the patient lost
in Arabic. consciousness, apply the steps of
cleaning up the blocked air passage
for an unconscious adult. (See next
paragraph).
First Aid | 97
Open the patient›s mouth and Apply the Artificial Respiration 7- Repeat raising the patient’s head
remove any objects inside. 4- If the patient was not breathing, from the palate and check the
1- Turn the patient on his back apply the artificial respiration from mouth whether there are any
carefully and raise his head and mouth to mouth. objects inside.
neck a little bit, call (999) for an 5- In case the chest did not rise, 8- In case of removing any objects,
ambulance and ask for help. change the location of the patient’s open the airway and check the
2- Open the patient’s mouth and push head and repeat the breathing breathing process.
his jaw down and remove any attempt. 9- In the event of respiratory arrest
objects inside his mouth with your 6- In case the chest did not rise, after removing any objects, apply
fingers. crouch on the patient’s knees, the artificial respiration process
3- Make sure the patient is breathing connect you hands and push 5 (see artificial respiration page).
looking, listening and sensing. times on his abdominal heading to 10- In case you did not remove the
the bottom of his rib cage, on a (J) object, repeat steps 6 and 7.
shape.
98 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Fire Safety
How to Use Fire Extinguisher 109
Therefore, as a responsible
individual, you must be aware of
fire hazards and the preventive
measures that you must apply in
your house and at the workplace.
Complete the fire hazard report form available in our website at www.ncema.gov.ae
Fire Safety | 103
• Good ventilation • Safely lighting the • Checking for gas • Replace old, worn • Appropriate
Windows should gas stove leaks out parts storage
be left open during The correct way to All pipes and The pipes and Liquid gas cylinders
cooking and light a gas stove is to connections must be stove parts must be must be stored in an
flammable materials hold the match or the regularly checked checked regularly upright position and
should be kept at a lighter close to the (flex pipe and the and replaced when away from flammable
safe distance from the holes in the centre of cut-off valve). Apply they are worn out materials at all times.
cooking stove. the burner that fire leak detection fluid or every two years. No more than one
usually comes out of or liquid soap to the The gas control valve reserve cylinder
and turn on the gas. rubber pipe and look must be replaced should be stored at a
for any bubbles, every five years or time.
which indicates that according to factory
there is a leak. instructions.
Fire Safety | 105
Smoke detectors
Smoke inhalation is one of the main causes for death in fatal fires. Most fire victims die of smoke inhalation
more than anything else because smoke contains toxic gas and particles. Hence, household smoke detectors
can help in signalling a fire to occupants before the smoke intensifies and becomes inescapable.
It is a computerised device that detects smoke, typically as an indicator for fire, and issues a local audible
or visual alarm. It is installed in the ceiling in the kitchen and bedroom areas. Additional detectors can
be installed in other rooms around the house to ensure further protection. The device must be regularly
maintained and tested by qualified technicians. (Refer to the device's manual book for proper checkup
intervals).
106 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Do not overcrowd buildings. • Do not remove any vital firefighting • Do not stack goods or objects in the
equipment such as fire hoses hallways, at emergency exits and
and fire extinguishers from their common staircases.
designated locations and make sure • Do not close exit doors when
to maintain them on a regular basis. buildings are occupied or during
working hours.
Fire Safety | 107
1. Evacuate the building. 2. Close the door at the fire site to 3. Shut down main gas sources if you
contain smoke and fumes. can reach them and call 999 for
help.
108 | Your Guide for Emergencies
4.Try to stop the fire if you can but make sure not to put 5. If you have to escape through the fire, bend down and
yourself or others in harm’s way. crawl out on your hands and knees. Smoke and toxic
gas usually start collecting from the ceiling down
leaving a 30 to 60 cm space of breathable air at the
floor level.
Fire Safety | 109
• Hold the fire • Press on the upper • Aim the hose at the • Use circular motion • When the fire
extinguisher in an handle. base of the fire at a to spray the fire is out, open all
upright position and safe distance of one extinguishing liquid windows and doors
remove the safety to one and a half to allow it to cover to allow for proper
pin. metres from the fire. the entire area of ventilation.
the fire.
110 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Setting off the manual alarm system and using the fire hose
In case a fire breaks out, observe the following steps:
• Set off the closest alarm system by shattering the glass lid, which helps in setting off the alarm system in
the entire building.
• Open the fire hose valve.
• Direct the hose towards the fire.
• Open the water and direct the hose to the base of the fire.
• Never use water to put out electrical fires.
Fire Safety | 111
1. Move to a safe 2- Close the door 3- Ask for help and 4- If you have 5- Do not panic or
room, preferably behind you and yell from the a landline attempt to jump
overlooking the cover the gape at window or any telephone, call from the window.
street. the bottom with a other openings to 999 and inform Help will be on its
towel or a carpet alert passersby and the operator of way.
to prevent smoke wait for the arrival your location
from leaking into of firefighters. (residence number,
your room. apartment, floor,
type of fire and
number of people
trapped.).
112 | Your Guide for Emergencies
• Stop... don’t panic and don’t run. • Lie on the floor, wherever you • Roll around constantly until the
are, and cover your face with both fire is out. Rolling around cuts the
hands to protect it from burns oxygen supply to the fire.
and prevent smoke and fumes
inhalation.
6 − Caring for Persons
with Special Needs
Caring for People with Chronic Diseases 117
People with special needs are an important segment of the community that requires special care and
attention in emergencies. Special measures should be taken to ensure their right to care and safety. People
in this segment could be senior citizens, people suffering from chronic diseases, people with motor, visual
or auditory disabilities.
The following is a series of instructions and guidelines for the assistance of special needs people in
emergencies according to their situations and cases:
• Determining their location in the community before and after the emergency to check on their needs in
terms of resources, procedures and decisions.
• Benefiting from the expertise of establishments in their immediate community and dealing with them as
strategic partners in the planning and exercise process. These include charitable organisations, specialised
government entities and special needs individuals.
• Addressing awareness and alertness messages to each of them according to their disabilities.
• In case the person in question uses a battery operated wheelchair, spare batteries should be provided.
• Care should be taken to avoid bursting in the wheelchair's tires. An air pump and a spare tire should be
made available.
• Special consideration must be given to the structural needs of this category of people in shelters such as
restrooms and ramps.
Caring for Persons With Special Needs | 119
Caring for visually impaired people Caring for auditory impaired people
• A safe shelter with easy access must be set up for • They should be equipped with a special beeper
them. and provided with a sign language interpreter.
• It is preferable to train the individuals in question • Providing hearing aids to those who need them in
in the required steps to enter and stay at the shelter addition to spare batteries.
and in how to behave in cases of emergency. • Instruction signs to the safe shelter must be put in
place.
• Special devices must be provided to warn them
in cases of emergency.
120 | Your Guide for Emergencies
When preparing the emergency kit, make sure that each member of your family is aware of it and its
location in the house. The kit must be ready and easy to carry when needed.
Each family member can have a role to play in preparing for emergencies. Preparing an emergency kit is a
simple and inexpensive process. You may need to review the list of items that must be included in the kit
and family members can take turns to check on the kit's components on a regular basis.
122 | Your Guide for Emergencies
Optional items
N.B. Items included in the emergency kit are for use in the places you may be evacuated to. They are to be
used separately from the stored on-site protection items. And separate and special items must be set aside
for chemical emergencies.
National
Installations
Seismology
and Coast
Emirate Police Ambulance Civil Defence and
Protection
Meteorology
Agency
Centre
02-222 7374
Abu Dhabi 999 998 997 996
02-222 7377
Dubai 999 998 997 996
Umm
Al Quwain 999 998 997 996
Ras
Al Khaimah 999 998 997 996
Epilogue
This guidebook is a series of instructions and directives aimed at providing your protection and the protection
of your family and environment. These instructions are based on the latest experiences, studies and research
in emergency management.
126 | Your Guide for Emergencies
This guidebook has been compiled as per the directives of our wise leadership and its keenness to preserve
human beings as a value in themselves by allocating all available capabilities to ensure their security, safety
and development.
This guidebook is useful in leading when dealing with emergencies, disasters and crises, whether they are
natural or manmade. It provides you with sufficient information and awareness to act safely in difficult
situations.
The instructions in this guidebook must be applied with a measure of awareness and responsibility to allow
you to prevent risks from happening or to allow you to be prepared to deal with emergencies and reduce
their negative effects on individuals and the community.