Minister of Defence and National Security Adam Shareef Umar has stated that Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) is working with government authorities to ensure adequate and suitable fire extinguishing facilities are established in households and offices in Maldives. The Minister made the statement after observing the progress of the annual fire safety exercise held by MNDF Fire and Rescue Service.
Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has been organising continuous exercises, in association with various governmental and non-governmental organisations, to minimize the effects of fire incidents, stated Minister of Defence and National Security Adam Shareef Umar in an exclusive interview with PSM News. Defence Minister Adam Shareef Umar further stated that such fire drills are catered to the general public and specified groups such as transport authorities and school students to minimise risks to life and goods during fire incidents. Defence Minister Adam Shareef Umar added that it is important to increase the number of fire extinguishing equipments in both office and accommodation units and over the years has witnessed increase in the awareness of safety measures in the public. Fire extinguishing equipments in some building are not up to mark as they are inadequate or not suitable for use and highlighted the importance of ensuring the condition of such equipments as they are life saviors at fire incidents, highlighted Minister Adam Shareef on the same note.The Minister highlighted that the current administration, in association with government authorities, would start activities to ensure the safety of such equipments.
MNDF has been organising various fire drills both in the capital city Male' and other parts of Maldives through Commands established at various parts of the nation.The latest fire drill was organised to test the amendment brought to the Fire Emergency Operation Plan last year, which showcased various real life scenarios and rescue exercises.
The event which was carried out at four locations; Male', Villimale', Hulhumale' and Thilafushi had exercises both at sea and buildings. The exercise also analysed the risks and improving factors while attending such cases. The exercise had participants from MNDF Fire and Rescue Service, Maldives Police Service, National Disaster Management Centre, Housing Development Cooperation, Villimale' Hospital, VilliMale' Island Council. Thilafushi Cooperation, ADK hospital and the Maldivian Red Crescent.