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In a series of awareness campaigns, motorists are urged to not rubberneck at scenes of accidents. Image Credit: Supplied

Abu Dhabi: National Ambulance has launched the first part of a series of videos aimed at raising public awareness on the most effective way to use the emergency ambulance service.

Over the next month, three videos will be posted on social platforms to help inform people about how to minimise delays and maximise the benefits National Ambulance provides.

The first video focuses on the role road users can play in ensuring that their behaviour does not hinder an ambulance at a motor vehicle accident site.

This includes getting out of the way of an ambulance, not rubbernecking when passing an accident scene, not following an ambulance to get out of traffic and not using the hard shoulder.

National Ambulance Deputy CEO, Ahmad Saleh Al Hajeri, said: “National Ambulance provides a vital public resource. Supporting the community is our priority. While National Ambulance is always ready to respond, the people we serve can also play a role in ensuring the best possible outcomes. By being ready and responsible, the people of the Northern Emirates are also serving the best interests of the nation.”

The two other videos to be posted this month will cover the responsible use of the 998 number and App and what callers need to know about dealing with an emergency. The educational videos will also be shown before the screening of films at Vox Cinemas through November.

Al Hajeri added: “The three videos contain very practical tips on actions everybody and anybody should take. I would urge everyone in the community to watch the films and be prepared to act when needed.”

As well as using the 998 emergency ambulance call number when encountering an emergency, people in the Northern Emirates can directly contact National Ambulance Communications Centre through the NA 998 App. At the touch of a button, people can request emergency ambulance, with the request going straight to National Ambulance’s Communications Centre.

Trained staff are able to respond and dispatch an ambulance directly to the scene through GPS tracking. The App is available for IOS, Android, Windows and Blackberry and can be downloaded via Apple App Store, Google Play, BlackBerry World and Windows stores.