Sharjah

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Emergency Services

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Emergency Services in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, has a well-organized and efficient emergency services system. The government prioritizes public safety and ensures that residents, visitors, and immigrants have access to essential services in times of need. Below is a comprehensive guide to the emergency services available in Sharjah, including how to contact them, procedures to follow, costs, and cultural considerations.

1. Types of Emergency Services in Sharjah

A. Police Services

  • Role: The Sharjah Police handle law enforcement, public safety, traffic management, and emergency response to crimes or accidents.
  • Emergency Contact Number: 999 (for emergencies)
    • 901 (for non-emergencies, general inquiries, or administrative matters)
  • Services Provided:
    • Responding to crimes, theft, or disturbances
    • Assisting in traffic accidents
    • Lost and found services
    • General public safety and security
  • Languages Spoken: Arabic and English (interpreters may be available for other languages)
  • Location: Police stations are located throughout Sharjah, with the main headquarters in Al Gharb.

B. Fire and Rescue Services

  • Role: The Sharjah Civil Defence Department is responsible for fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue operations.
  • Emergency Contact Number: 997
  • Services Provided:
    • Firefighting and fire prevention
    • Rescue operations during building collapses, floods, or other disasters
    • Hazardous material management
  • Response Time: The Civil Defence aims to respond to emergencies within minutes, especially in urban areas.
  • Fire Safety Tip: Many buildings in Sharjah are equipped with fire alarms and extinguishers. Familiarize yourself with the fire exits in your residence or workplace.

C. Ambulance and Medical Emergency Services

  • Role: Ambulance services in Sharjah are managed by the National Ambulance Service and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
  • Emergency Contact Number: 998
  • Services Provided:
    • Emergency medical care and transportation to hospitals
    • On-site first aid and stabilization
    • Coordination with hospitals for specialized care
  • Response Time: Ambulances are dispatched promptly and are equipped with advanced medical equipment.
  • Hospitals in Sharjah:
    • Al Qassimi Hospital (government hospital)
    • Kuwait Hospital
    • Zulekha Hospital (private)
    • Medcare Hospital (private)

D. Coast Guard and Marine Rescue

  • Role: The Coast Guard handles emergencies at sea, including drowning incidents, boat accidents, and maritime security.
  • Emergency Contact Number: 996
  • Services Provided:
    • Rescue operations for swimmers and boaters
    • Maritime law enforcement
    • Search and rescue missions

E. Electricity and Water Emergencies

  • Role: The Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA) handles emergencies related to power outages, water supply issues, and gas leaks.
  • Emergency Contact Number: 991
  • Services Provided:
    • Resolving power outages
    • Fixing water supply disruptions
    • Addressing gas leaks or related hazards

2. How to Contact Emergency Services

  • Phone Numbers:
    • Police: 999
    • Fire: 997
    • Ambulance: 998
    • Coast Guard: 996
    • SEWA (Electricity/Water): 991
  • Mobile Apps: The UAE government has introduced apps like the MOI UAE app (Ministry of Interior) for reporting emergencies, accessing services, and receiving alerts.
  • Location Tracking: When calling emergency services, provide your exact location. Use landmarks or GPS coordinates if possible, as this will help responders reach you faster.

3. Procedures to Follow in an Emergency

  1. Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
  2. Call the Relevant Emergency Number: Dial the appropriate number (e.g., 999 for police, 998 for ambulance).
  3. Provide Clear Information:
    • Your name and contact number
    • Nature of the emergency (e.g., fire, medical, crime)
    • Exact location (building name, street, landmarks)
  4. Follow Instructions: The operator may provide instructions (e.g., performing CPR, evacuating a building). Follow them carefully.
  5. Wait for Help: Stay on the line if instructed and remain at the location unless it is unsafe to do so.

4. Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  • Police and Fire Services: Free of charge for all residents, visitors, and immigrants.
  • Ambulance Services:
    • Emergency ambulance services are generally free for UAE nationals and residents.
    • Visitors may be charged for ambulance transportation and hospital treatment, depending on their insurance coverage.
    • It is highly recommended for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
  • Hospital Treatment:
    • Government hospitals are more affordable than private hospitals.
    • UAE nationals receive free or subsidized healthcare in government hospitals.
    • Expats and visitors must pay for treatment unless covered by insurance.

5. Local and Cultural Considerations

  • Language: While Arabic is the official language, most emergency responders speak English. If you do not speak either language, try to find someone nearby who can assist with translation.
  • Cultural Sensitivity:
    • Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in public areas.
    • Avoid public displays of anger or frustration, as this may be considered disrespectful.
  • Legal Considerations:
    • Reporting false emergencies is a serious offense and can result in fines or legal action.
    • Always carry identification (e.g., Emirates ID for residents, passport for visitors) as it may be required during emergencies.
  • Traffic Laws: In case of a traffic accident, do not move your vehicle until the police arrive, unless it is causing a major obstruction. Moving your vehicle prematurely can result in fines.
  • Emergency Preparedness:
    • Familiarize yourself with the emergency exits and safety procedures in your residence, workplace, or hotel.
    • Keep a list of emergency numbers saved in your phone and written down in case of phone failure.

6. Additional Resources

7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as healthcare costs can be high for visitors.
  • Emergency Kits: Keep a basic emergency kit at home, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and a list of emergency contacts.
  • Stay Informed: Follow local news and government alerts for updates on weather conditions, road closures, or other emergencies.

By understanding the emergency services in Sharjah and following the procedures outlined above, you can ensure your safety and well-being during your time in the emirate.