KUWAIT: Marine rescuers at the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) embody a living example of selflessness and dedication, operating around the clock in a high-risk environment that demands constant alertness, courage and readiness to safeguard lives at sea, said Brigadier Bader Al-Kaddam, Director of the Fire and Marine Rescue Department. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Al-Kaddam highlighted the significant advancements made by the KFF’s Marine Rescue Department since its establishment in 1998, noting its critical role in responding to maritime emergencies, preserving lives, and protecting the marine environment.
Director of the Marine Fire Department in the General Fire Force, Brigadier Badr Al-Kadm
Marine rescue officers and personnel.
“Marine rescue missions are among the most dangerous operations, requiring swift, high-stakes decision-making in unpredictable and unstable conditions,” he said, emphasizing the importance of specialized training and technical skill for rescue personnel. Beyond emergency response, Al-Kaddam noted that marine teams actively promote public safety by educating seafarers about swimming in designated safe zones, adhering to safety instructions, and avoiding maritime risks, particularly in unstable weather.
He affirmed that the department’s rescue teams are equipped with advanced tools, including high-speed boats and modern life-saving equipment, allowing them to respond efficiently to emergencies such as drownings, ship fires, and lost persons at sea. Marine rescue efforts have proven instrumental in reducing the rate of maritime accidents through a combination of rapid response, public awareness, and persistent monitoring and readiness, he added. Al-Kaddam also shed light on the department’s coordination with other relevant agencies, such as the Coast Guard and emergency medical services. “Joint operations are managed through a unified command center where information is relayed instantly, and roles are assigned based on the nature of each incident,” he explained.
Touching on seasonal challenges, Al-Kaddam said the summer period poses increased risks due to the surge in beachgoers, requiring heightened vigilance and intensive efforts from rescue teams. He called on the public to cooperate with marine authorities by following safety protocols and respecting instructions. He revealed that from January 1 to July 14, the Marine Fire Department responded to a total of 813 incidents, ranging from mechanical failures and fires to search-and-rescue operations. — KUNA
