135 rescue ops carried out in RAK

As many as 135 local and federal search, rescue and national operations were carried out by the air wing section of Ras Al Khaimah Police in 2017.

Wing Commander Saeed Rashid Al Yamahi, head of the air wing section, said these included 21 search and rescue missions.

"Added to this were 114 participations in national occasions as well as two initiatives for bringing happiness to the orphans, training sessions, and airlifting of patients."

Al Yamahi urged all mountain-goers, tourists and workers to be more cautious at these areas and take all precautionary measures for their safety.

"All members in the team are not only provided with the latest search and rescue equipment but also go through regular training as well to be alert for missions round-the-clock." 

"What makes our job more difficult when looking for a missing person here is the insufficient or unclear information, the rough, rocky, and sloppy mountainous areas which are hard to get to, apart from the unstable weather conditions, mainly the atmospheric pressures, funnel clouds, and heavy showers. 

"All tourists and climbers need to carry special equipment and wear protective clothing, and be accompanied at all times by a qualified trainer who can react in a professional manner during emergencies."

Trekkers and climbers should also learn the basics of rock climbing on an indoor wall first, he added. "Climbers need to inform the authorities about their activities, whereabouts and their numbers. They should also consult climbing websites to get up-to-date information on local climbing sites."

Trekkers are advised to bring a means of communication, such as a mobile or satellite phone, he said. "A whistle could also be useful to attract attention, and take food items on their hike."