RIYADH: Inspections were conducted in the holy cities under the supervision of Makkah Health Affairs, Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Madinah to assess the preparations to ensure a safe Hajj.
The fire department organized a mock drill at one of the pilgrim residences in Makkah city to gauge the level of preparedness of medical facilities and staff this Hajj season. The test included a fire resulting from a short circuit. The mock drill test involved smoke and fire spreading outside the building and evacuating several occupants. About 34 accidents, including fatal injuries, were simulated and rescue attempts were included in the mock drill.
The medical staff examined the cases according to their assigned zones. Six cases were in the red zone, eight cases were in the yellow zone, 16 cases were in the green zone and four cases were in the black zone. Makkah Health Affairs spokesman Hamad Al Otaibi confirmed that the test was conducted with the participation of several medical and security authorities and departments. The mock drill witnessed the participation and testing of the Emergency and Disaster Executive Administration at the Ambulatory Centers at Makkah Healthcare Cluster and affiliated hospitals Al-Noor Specialist Hospital, King Abdulaziz Hospital and King Faisal Hospital.
Makkah Health Affairs Director General and Hajj and Umrah Executive Committee Chairman Waail bin Hamza Mutair confirmed the readiness of the Makkah health sector to deal with all medical, ambulatory and emergency cases inside and outside the holy places. In a recent cabinet meeting, King Salman had ordered to provide the best possible service to the pilgrims during Hajj.
Serving the Hajj and Umrah pilgrims has been a top priority since the founding of the country. The King said that he is proud to continue this mission with the highest potential. Meanwhile, SRCA President Dr. Jalal Bin Muhammad Al Owaisi visited Medina. The visit is part of a tour to check the preparations ahead of the Hajj and to ensure the readiness of the various centers that receive pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah. Al Owaisi heard about the potential of the centers and the most important preparations these centers are making to receive visitors to Madinah during the Hajj season.