Campaign urges proper use of ‘998’

National Ambulance launched on Sunday an awareness campaign about the importance of the responsible and effective use of the ‘998 emergency ambulance number.’

The campaign entitled ‘Do not waste their time...it can cost lives’ highlights the dangers of engaging National Ambulance’s lines with unnecessary calls, especially during the current period, which requires concerted efforts in facing the corona virus, COVID-19, pandemic.

The initiative urges residents and citizens to take an active responsible role and help National Ambulance save more lives by calling an ambulance only during an emergency, according to a press release issued on Sunday.

National Ambulance provides emergency pre-hospital care in the Northern Emirates through the dedicated 998 emergency ambulance number and ‘NA 998’ mobile application.

The campaign kicks off with a video featuring Emirati, Gulf and Arab drama stars, which was sponsored and produced by Emirati company Film Gate.

Ahmed Saleh Al Hajeri, CEO of National Ambulance, said, “A few seconds may determine the lives of patients in emergency situations; sometimes it’s the difference between life and death.

“As every moment counts in emergency situations, and in minimising complications and risks that may threaten lives, it’s very important to act responsibly during the current period,” he said.

Al Hajeri added, “My call to you is only think once if it’s an emergency before calling us, but think twice about calling for an emergency ambulance if it is not a life-threatening situation. So be wise,

Separately, Major General Saif Al-Zari Al-Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police visited the Air Wing Division at the General Directorate of Security Support at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Sharjah, to follow-up the compliance with the procedures for the movement of workers between the Emirate of Sharjah and other emirates.

Maj. Gen. Al Shamsi was accompanied by Brigadier Ahmed Saeed Al-Naour, Director General of Central Operations.

The visit started with an air tour to see the traffic movement on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road within the precautionary procedures applied in these circumstances that aim to restrict the movement of workers by buses on both internal and external roads in the Emirate of Sharjah.