400 people register as volunteers in case of national disaster

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced its 'National Volunteer Programme' in February with the aim to enrol more than 3,000 people by the end of the year.

ABU DHABI // More than 400 people have volunteered to help the authorities in the event of a national disaster or emergency.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced its National Volunteer Programme in February. It aimed to enrol 3,000 people by the end of the year.

Officials have repeated the appeal for members of the public to come forward as part of their “national duty” to help to deal with emergencies such as floods, earthquakes or fires.

“These volunteers include Emiratis, expatriates, men and women, and will be trained how to deal with emergency situations,” said Dr Saif Al Dhahiri, director of the National Volunteering Programme at the authority.

“We are looking for 3,000 volunteers and on achieving this target we will train them and distribute in all seven emirates. After Eid Al Fitr we will start training the first batch.”

The authority will recruit only medically fit people over the age of 18.

“This is non-paid programme but volunteers get some benefits through strategic partners,” said Dr Al Dhahiri.

Candidates should not be a member of a political party or religious group operating inside or outside the UAE, and also not be a member of any other volunteering programme.

For details and to register, visit www.ncema.gov.ae.