The Red Crescent in Al-Baha: A comprehensive ambulance plan for the month of Ramadan

A comprehensive plan to ensure safety during Ramadan

The Saudi Red Crescent Authority in the Al-Baha region announced it has enhanced its emergency medical services and completed preparations for the holy month of Ramadan. This includes activating a comprehensive operational plan aimed at increasing the readiness and field deployment of ambulance teams. The plan involves activating 16 ambulance centers across the region's various governorates and districts, supported by 18 to 20 ambulance teams operating around the clock to ensure immediate and effective response to all emergency calls and incidents.

General context and importance of seasonal preparations

These preparations are part of the vital role played by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, established in 1963, as a cornerstone of the Kingdom's emergency medical services system. With the arrival of Ramadan each year, the Kingdom's cities witness a change in daily life, with a significant increase in traffic during peak hours, especially before Iftar (the breaking of the fast), and larger gatherings at mosques for Isha and Taraweeh prayers. These factors increase the likelihood of traffic accidents or medical emergencies requiring a rapid response, making seasonal operational plans crucial to ensuring the safety of citizens and residents.

Details of the operational plan and its expected impact

The authority explained that the plan focuses specifically on peak times related to the period before Iftar, Taraweeh prayers, and Ramadan gatherings. To achieve maximum efficiency, four advanced rapid response teams have been assigned to handle critical cases requiring urgent medical intervention. This directly contributes to improving response times and reducing complications. The readiness of command and control centers has also been enhanced to strengthen coordination with response partners from other government agencies, such as Civil Defense and Traffic Police, to ensure the rapid deployment of teams and the monitoring of cases in the field until their transfer to healthcare facilities according to approved procedures.

The role of volunteers in promoting community awareness

As part of its field integration efforts, the Authority activated a volunteer deployment plan in several high-traffic locations, such as major mosques, markets, and tourist sites. This deployment aims to support ambulance teams in providing primary medical services, raise awareness of the importance of first aid among community members, and promote a culture of public safety. Volunteer work is one of the fundamental pillars upon which the Authority relies to expand its services and strengthen its relationship with the community.

A call for commitment and communication during emergencies

In closing, the Red Crescent Authority in Al-Baha urged everyone to adhere to health and safety guidelines and to follow traffic safety rules to avoid accidents. It also stressed the importance of calling the ambulance service number (997) or using the “Is’afni” (Rescue Me) application when assistance is needed, wishing everyone good health, safety, and a blessed Ramadan.