Dubai: Police here rescued a group of six Arab women from drowning at Al Mamzar beach on Tuesday.
Lt Colonel Ali Abdullah Al Naqbi, director of Maritime Rescue Department at Dubai Police, said high waves and rough seas surprised the women while they were swimming on the beach on Tuesday afternoon.
“We received three emergency calls about six women drowning in the sea due to rough water. A quick response from rescue patrols saved the lives of the women,” Lt Col Al Naqbi said.
He praised the coordination and effort of officials in Dubai Municipality with Dubai Police who retrieved the women from the swirling water.
The women were given first aid at the site.
Drowning incidents
About 14 people were killed and four others injured in drowning incidents last year, according to official stats by Dubai Police.
Lt Col Al Naqbi, urged swimmers to follow safety instructions and check the color of flag on the coast.
“If the flag was red then it is not allowed to swim due to rough conditions of the sea and high waves. People should follow safety instructions,” he added.
However, Dubai Police has nine sea rescue points on all Dubai beaches including rescue boats and jet-skies ready around the clock for any emergencies.
Dubai Police urged the public to dial 999 for any emergency situation.
Meanwhile, Brigadier Abdul Qader Al Bannai, director of Ports police station, said that there are 15 life-guards towers on all beaches which helped for quick response for drowning incidents.
He urged the beachgoers to be careful especially after sunset as Dubai Municipality’s lifeguards only operate from sunrise to sunset.
“Part of the problem is that many beachgoers are not aware of safety measures while swimming on beaches. Our police patrols are always on the beach for an emergency but we need people’s cooperation to tackle the problem,” Brig Al Bannai said.
