RAWALPINDI, 18 MAY (DNA) — Rescue 1122, Murree, on Monday, conducted special water rescue drills at Rawal Dam as part of pre-monsoon preparedness measures aimed at improving emergency response to flooding and water-related incidents.
According to the Rescue, 1122 spokesman, the exercises were carried out on the directives of Secretary Emergency Services Punjab Dr Rizwan Naseer, Sitara-i-Imtiaz, and the District Disaster Management Authority.
The drills were intended to strengthen advanced preparedness, rapid response capability and the professional skills of rescue personnel to effectively handle possible flash floods, overflowing rivers and canals, landslides and drowning incidents during the monsoon season.
During the exercises, rescue teams received practical training in search-and-rescue operations, swift-water rescue techniques, and the use of rescue boats, life jackets, ropes and other safety equipment to evacuate affected people to safer locations.
Officials also carried out a detailed inspection of water rescue equipment and emergency machinery to ensure timely and effective action during emergencies. Rescue 1122 spokesman said all rescue teams would remain on high alert throughout the monsoon season, while special monitoring would continue at dams, waterfalls, and other high-risk areas.
Additional personnel were also being deployed at tourist destinations to enable immediate response in the event of accidents, he added. He urged citizens and tourists to avoid bathing in unsafe locations, taking selfies near water bodies and approaching fast-flowing streams or rivers.
Parents were advised to keep a close watch on children and observe precautionary measures in view of changing weather conditions. Citizens were also asked to report emergencies immediately at the Rescue 1122 helpline.— DNA
