The upcoming International Exhibition for Security and National Resilience (ISNR) in Abu Dhabi will feature an event to test firefighting and rescue skills.

UAE’s Ministry of Interior, represented by the Civil Defense General Headquarters, will be organizing the UAE International Fire Fighter Challenge 2014 as part of ISNR 2014 (1-3 April at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre).

This first-of-its-kind event in the Middle East, Europe and Africa, is being organized by UAE-based fire and rescue management firm 911 Occupational Safety and Fire Fighting Training, under the patronage of Lt General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

It is a series of unique motivational competitions that test firefighters’ basic fitness skills, stamina and innovation, as well as their capacity to exchange know-how with their colleagues, and raise awareness of the dangers of fire.

The competition is expected to draw a significant turnout of participants from all over the world, as they compete for prizes totaling $150,000.

Registration for the competition opened on February 1 and will continue until mid-March. Companies and institutions wishing to participate in the competition can apply online, on the company's website 911-challenge.com.

Major General Staff Dr. Obeid Al Kutbi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for ISNR 2014 said that organizing such competitions aims at developing firefighters’ skills and encouraging fair competition amongst them, in terms of speed, skills and fitness.

It also encourages them to showcase skills in decision-making response in cases of emergencies, particularly fires and accidents, given that a few seconds can spell the difference between life and death for victims, he added.

Major General Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Civil Defense Acting General Commander-in-Chief said that civil defense duties do not only include firefighting.

“Civil Defense staff members are also active advocates seeking to raise awareness and spread knowledge among community members, to ensure the highest levels of safety and protection,” said Major General Al Matroushi. He also noted that this world-class championship provides the opportunity for civil defense staff members and society segments to get acquainted with the best practices applicable in this area, which contribute to safeguarding life and property.

Mohammed Al Ahmadi, General Manager of 911 Occupational Safety and Fire Fighting Training Company, said that the competition has become a highly anticipated attraction for firefighters and rescue responders. “The competitors are in for a thrilling distinguished unparalleled experience in the region,” he added.