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Kuwait Fire Force chief inspects hazardous materials centers
Visit highlights national preparedness amid ongoing Iran-Zionist conflict
KUWAIT: Kuwait's fire force chief inspected key emergency response units on Friday, highlighting the country's heightened state of readiness to confront chemical and radiological threats. The visit follows more than a week of escalating missile exchanges between the Zionist entity and Iran, fueling regional security concerns and fears of chemical or radiological fallout.
Lieutenant General Talal Al-Roumi, Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF), toured the Shadadiya Hazardous Materials Center, accompanied by Acting Deputy Chief for Firefighting Operations Brigadier General Omar Hamad. The visit aimed to assess operational procedures, response capacity, and the advanced technologies used in high-risk emergency scenarios. According to a KFF statement, Al-Roumi received detailed briefings on handling chemical and biological incidents, as well as safety protocols, protective strategies, and technical training programs for specialized personnel. He was also shown the latest detection and rescue equipment used by the centers.
KUWAIT: Lieutenant General Talal Al-Roumi, Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF), tours the Shadadiya Center for Hazardous Materials on Friday. — KUNA photos
Al-Roumi praised the professional preparedness of the teams. 'The progress achieved in both technical equipment and qualified human resources is commendable. It is vital that we continue updating and developing our capabilities to keep pace with growing challenges in this vital field. This will enhance the Fire Force's ability to protect lives and property and to ensure community safety.'
The visit comes days after the Kuwait Fire Force publicly confirmed its full operational readiness following Zionist strikes on Iranian nuclear sites that raised international concern about environmental and radiological hazards. While no leaks have been detected, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned of potential dangers if facilities like Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant are affected.
Speaking earlier this week, Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Ghareeb, Director of Public Relations and Media at the Fire Force, said all land, marine, and airport fire stations are on high alert and equipped to handle emergencies. 'The force maintains a state of continuous readiness 24/7 throughout the year to receive and respond immediately to all emergency calls — whether serious or minor — via the emergency number 112,' he said.
The Fire Force has recently deployed advanced CBRN detection vehicles capable of on-site chemical and radiological analysis, in addition to robotic reconnaissance devices and specialized suits for handling hazardous substances. A weather monitoring system is also used at incident sites to support live decision-making. 'These technologies enhance our ability to act quickly and safely in a range of emergency scenarios,' Al-Ghareeb added. He urged the public to report any suspected emergencies, noting: 'Every report is treated seriously, regardless of the level of danger.' — Agencies
