Dubai Civil Defence notes lack of deaths in 2014

Maj Gen Rashid Al Matrooshi said there were some injuries, but no loss of life among firefighters or rescuers.

Dubai Civil Defence announced there was no loss of life among firefighters or rescuers in 2014 and the first five months of this year.

Maj Gen Rashid Al Matrooshi said there were some injuries, including breathing difficulties, which were treated at the scene. Such injuries are linked to the dangerous environment Civil Defence works in, which can feature high temperatures, toxic gases, asphyxiating fumes, high humidity, slippery surfaces, chemical fumes and falling objects.

He said firefighters undergo continuous training to gain special skills that enable them to cope with all eventualities at the scene. There are nearly 1,100 officers and staff members at Dubai Civil Defence.