Serco welcomes DCD ‘1 Billion Readiness’ initiative
Serco Middle East has expressed its support for Dubai Civil Defence’s ‘1 Billion Readiness’ programme, a global initiative to educate one billion people on fire prevention and safety by 2027.
The programme, launched under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, aims to foster international collaboration across 34 countries and 18 major firefighting organisations. It seeks to enhance global fire safety standards and build more resilient communities.
Teren Tan, Head of Emergency Services for Serco Middle East, commended the programme, stating: “This initiative marks a pivotal moment in global fire safety, not just for governments and public agencies but also for private sector partners like ourselves.”
Technology and cross-sector collaboration
The initiative aims to integrate advanced technology and international partnerships to meet its ambitious goals. According to Tan, tools such as IoT-enabled fire detection systems, AI-powered incident analysis, and virtual reality training are instrumental in transforming emergency response planning.
Tan added: “Tools such as predictive analytics in asset management and emergency response planning can support the data-driven approach emphasised by Dubai Civil Defence’s new platform.”
He highlighted the programme’s potential to unite governments, private organisations, and communities globally, making it more than a fire safety initiative but a movement for resilience.
UAE’s leadership in global safety
Tan described the UAE’s involvement as a demonstration of its commitment to innovation and global safety leadership.
“The UAE sets a powerful precedent by prioritising safety and resilience on a worldwide scale,” said Tan. “This commitment not only elevates fire safety standards but also underscores the UAE’s position as a leader in humanitarian and emergency preparedness efforts.”
A key aspect of the initiative is the Hope Convoys project, which aims to support developing nations with essential fire safety equipment and infrastructure to improve emergency response capabilities.
Serco’s alignment with the programme
Serco’s expertise in emergency services and training aligns with the goals of the ‘1 Billion Readiness’ initiative. The company’s fire and rescue training centres in Dubai and the UK are equipped to deliver advanced simulations and bespoke learning solutions that complement the programme’s objectives.
Tan added: “This initiative proves that collaboration is the key to overcoming the complex challenges of fire safety. Together, we can ignite a culture of preparedness and prevention that transcends borders and saves lives.”
Serco Middle East welcomes Dubai Civil Defence’s global fire safety programme: Summary
Serco Middle East has endorsed Dubai Civil Defence’s ‘1 Billion Readiness’ programme, which aims to educate one billion people on fire safety by 2027. The initiative involves 34 countries and 18 major firefighting organisations and is supported by advanced technologies such as AI and IoT.