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Experts call for adherence to rules to reduce accidents

Adhering to traffic rules and wearing protective gear while on the road are critical to bringing down road accidents, according to experts speaking at a public awareness workshop organised by the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services at its headquarters at Al Warzan, Dubai.

The workshop on the importance of road safety was held as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative by DM Healthcare. Called the Strap (Safety Tips for Road Accident Prevention) initiative, the campaign was launched in December 2012 and aimed at raising awareness on road safety and educating people on how to act during emergencies.

Carnage on the road following the accident. KT file photo

Speaking at the event, Dr Azad Moopen, Chairman of DM Healthcare, said: “Road accidents are one of the major causes of death in the world. It is said that about 1.2 million people die in road accidents every year, which is almost half the population of Dubai when you look in perspective. About 50 per cent of this number is below 30 years of age. This is an alarming number. “The unfortunate part about these statistics is that most of these are preventable. The key points that can help in the reduction of death on the roads are control of speed, wearing seatbelt and helmets and not drinking and driving. Awareness begins at home,” he added.

As part of this campaign, DM Healthcare launched the first Mobile Medical Clinic in the UAE known as ‘Dr Aster Mobile’, which is being used as a tool to reach people with the message of road safety. The vehicle has been constantly on the move going to various corporate houses, labour camps, school and public areas in the UAE to conduct medical camps, awareness seminars on road safety and offer BLS training.— news@khaleejtimes.com