The UAE has introduced a global framework that measures the full impact of fires, going well beyond how quickly emergency teams respond and contain them.
The Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence presented the Global Fire Incident Footprint Framework at a specialised forum attended by Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention and Chairman of the Authority. Leaders, experts and specialists from the UAE and abroad took part. More than 70 international figures contributed to the framework’s development.
The methodology assesses the direct and indirect effects of fires on people, the environment, the economy, critical systems and public confidence. It rests on four dimensions: the Economic Impact Footprint, the Human and Environmental Footprint, the Critical Systems Footprint, and the Trust and Global Reputation Footprint. The aim is to support stronger prevention, response and recovery policies.
Al Sayegh said the UAE continues to build an integrated national system founded on preparedness, investment in people and technology, and the adoption of global best practice.
“Developing emergency response systems is no longer limited to responding swiftly to incidents and bringing them under control,”
he said, adding that it also requires a full understanding of their wider repercussions and proactive capabilities that reduce risk and protect critical sectors.
The forum also launched the 997 Leadership Programme, which is designed to build leadership capabilities across the ambulance and civil defence system. AI ambassadors were appointed across various entities and units to promote responsible and effective use of artificial intelligence.
The Authority also signed a memorandum of cooperation with Georgetown University. The agreement covers leadership development, crisis management, scientific research and capability building, drawing on academic expertise to strengthen emergency response readiness.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
