The Minister of Interior and head of the Supreme Haj Council Prince Mohammed bin Naif has approved the general emergency and safety plan of the Civil Defense for pilgrims during the upcoming Haj season.

Maj. Gen. Suleiman bin Abdullah Al-Amro, director of the Civil Defense, said the approval is an extension of the efforts of the minister of interior, who has been closely following up on all matters related to the safety and security of pilgrims. The security plan supports efforts of the Civil Defense to carry out its duties in the face of any potential threats during the Haj season.

According to Al-Amro, the plan accommodates the recent renovations in Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites, including the large expansion of the grounds of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, and was prepared based on lessons of previous Haj seasons.

He confirmed that the Civil Defense forces are fully prepared to carry out their duties this year, as per the plan, and face all potential threats and emergencies. He said the plan also takes into consideration the implementation of all necessary measures, and prevents potential threats through the provision of necessary means and equipment in coordination with other private and government agencies.

Al-Amro said there are 450 Civil Defense centers throughout Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites, all of which have been fully equipped with the necessary safety equipment, ambulances, fire trucks and water rescue equipment. Special Civil Defense units are also prepared to deal with hazardous materials.