WAM Dubai, Aug 12th, 2012 (WAM) -- Major General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Acting Commander in Chief of Dubai Civil Defence has said that Civil Defence is aimed to spread preventive awareness and scientific information to the public, the business sector, and other government departments and organizations and to help in rescue operations, forming volunteer corps and emergency units to support civil defence forces.

"The most important goal is to save lives and property, public and private, and to ensure a safe environment. Cvil defence plays a vital role in industrial and business safety and in the safety of other important facilities," he was speaking at an Iftar gathering held in connection with a campaign on the Use of Manual Fire Extinguishers, which is being organized as part of a private company's Ramadan awareness programmes at the Dubai Mall from 5 - 22 of August (8:00 pm to 12:00 am).

The iftar gathering was also attended by Major Jamal Ahmed Ibrahim, Director of Preventive Safety Department at Dubai Civil Defence as well as a number of officials, prominent figures from various circles, and special guests.

The importance and purpose of the programme, which is endeavouring to minimize fire damage and ensure a safe environment, were highlighted during the opening. The role of the various sponsors, most noticeably the Saudi Factory for Fire Equipment Co (SFFECO), was highly commended.

"This activity aims to raise awareness on the importance of manual fire extinguishers in fighting small fires and restricting the spread of fire. The goal is to instruct people on how to use these manual extinguishers, when they should be used and a general tips about fire and the necessary actions to be taken during various fire emergencies, "Al Matrooshi added.

Attendees highly appreciated the outstanding efforts of DCD in supporting public awareness on how to deal with various emergencies. They said that organizing such activities helps raise awareness and make people involved in shouldering responsibility during danger instead of responding negatively or just trying to escape. DCD confirmed their intention to organize more programmes of this type.

WAM/AM