UAE: Drivers receive wake-up call at Abu Dhabi Police forum

Gulf News

21-04-2025

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Police have issued a strong message to motorists, highlighting several dangerous behaviours contributing to road accidents—many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Speaking at a community forum in Al Ain titled 'Safety and Prevention… A Community Responsibility,' officials underscored the dangers of distracted driving, particularly the use of mobile phones for browsing, social media, calls, or photos while behind the wheel.
Lieutenant Colonel Nasser Abdullah Al Saadi, Head of the Security Media Section at the Security Media Department, noted that driver distraction remains a major factor in traffic collisions, especially when individuals fail to maintain attention needed to respond to sudden road hazards or mechanical issues. Such inattentiveness, he added, can lead to severe consequences.
He also highlighted the risks associated with misuse of overtaking lanes. Drivers were reminded to give way to faster vehicles, stay in the right lane when driving at slower speeds, and avoid overtaking from the right, which poses a significant risk of serious or fatal accidents.
The forum also addressed pedestrian safety, a continued strategic priority for the authorities. Efforts to enhance pedestrian safety across the Emirate include the construction of bridges, improvement of crosswalks, installation of signal-controlled crossings, and closure of gaps with protective fencing.
Real-life videos
As part of the wider Path of Safety 2 campaign, attendees were shown real-life video footage depicting common violations, such as failure to stop safely in traffic and not maintaining adequate distance between vehicles.
The event was organised by the General Command of Abu Dhabi Police and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Majalis under the Office of Citizens and Community Affairs at the Presidential Court. It was held at Falaj Hazza Majlis in Al Ain City.
Brigadier Dr Hamoud Saeed Al Afari, Director of the Community Police Department, emphasised that such forums play a crucial role in raising public awareness of social, security, and traffic-related issues. These community-focused initiatives, he said, support Abu Dhabi Police's vision of engaging citizens in strengthening safety and security.
Proactive strategy
Major Meera Abdul Latif Al Zaabi from the Emergency and Public Safety Sector at the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority said the forum reflects the Authority's proactive strategy in placing public safety at the forefront of its priorities. She linked the initiative to the objectives of Community Year 2025, which aims to cultivate a culture of prevention through public education and preparedness.
She added that partnerships with Abu Dhabi Majalis and other entities are essential in building a society that is conscious, resilient, and positioned as a key pillar of the sustainable civil protection system.
First Assistant Salem Al Braiki from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority provided attendees with a brief overview on the different types of fire extinguishers and how to use them correctly.
Paramedic Corporal Sultan Al Maskari presented a session covering the principles and aims of first aid, common accident causes, and emergency response techniques. His presentation included how to assess injured individuals and manage wounds, burns, and fractures, while maintaining personal and scene safety.
The forum was praised by attendees for its role in boosting community awareness, enhancing police-public cooperation, and supporting efforts to maintain long-term safety and stability across Abu Dhabi.