Recently, the floods have firmly established themselves across the UAE, and when roads become submerged, standard rescue equipment reaches a standstill. Sharjah introduced amphibious rescue vehicles. The Sharjah Civil Defence Authority has implemented the use of a fleet of such high-tech machines to enhance its flood response.
What Are the Amphibious Rescue Vehicles?
Imagine that the truck and the boat are together. The amphibious vehicles in question can move on land and water simultaneously to change mode. No delays or additional equipment. The relocation would help accelerate the rescue process, provide access to trapped citizens, and manage disasters in extreme weather conditions in a more controlled manner.
The new Sharjah fleet has an eight-wheel drive that enables them to have good grip and balance even when in wet or rugged terrain. It means that they will be able to pass through the streets of the city, muddy areas, and deep water without losing their balance.
The Importance Of These Vehicles During Floods
Situations involving floods evolve rapidly. Roads become blocked, water levels rise, and people get trapped.
Conventional automobiles do not cope with such emergencies. Amphibious ones do.
They allow rescue teams to:
- Evacuate the residents from the submerged houses.
- Deliver emergency supplies
- Move to lower levels or dead ends.
- Provide real-time assistance to rescue teams.
According to a report from The Gulf Today, these vehicles are included in a larger scheme to enhance response time and minimise risk in times of extreme weather.
Authorities do not simply park such cars anywhere. Authorities are very conscious of where to place it.
Teams deploy them in high-priority areas through the use of past storm data and risk patterns. Therefore, response teams can respond immediately upon receiving a call, typically via the emergency hotline 997.
All the difference can be a matter of speed.
Also Read: Worried About Electrical Risks Due To Rain In Sharjah? Here’s How To Keep Your Home Safe
Safe-First Approach
Improved rescue tools do not overrule prevention.
The authorities are encouraging the locals to remain at home when it is raining heavily, as well as to avoid flood-prone zones such as low-lying roads or valleys. Drivers should drive slowly, maintain spacing and never attempt to pass flooded areas.
Cover Image Courtesy: Sharjah Civil Defence/Instagram
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What makes amphibious vehicles different from normal ones?
They can operate on both land and water without switching equipment.
How can residents request help during floods?
By calling the emergency hotline 997 for immediate assistance.
Who uses these vehicles in Sharjah?
They are operated by trained teams from the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority.
When are these vehicles used?
This occurs primarily during floods, heavy rain, and emergency rescue operations.