Muscat – The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has dispatched its first reinforcement contingent to Dhofar as part of preparations for Dhofar Khareef 2026, while urging visitors to prioritise road safety and follow precautionary measures during their journey.

Travellers heading to the governorate have been advised to ensure their vehicles are fully serviced, carry working fire extinguishers and first-aid kits, observe speed limits and traffic regulations, and familiarise themselves with fuel stations and rest areas along the route.

Before the contingent departed on Wednesday, Lt Gen Khalifa bin Ali Al Siyabi, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Customs for Administrative and Financial Affairs, met the personnel and praised their readiness. He urged them to carry out their duties with professionalism and uphold the humanitarian values of the authority.

The reinforcement team includes specialists in firefighting, land rescue, water rescue and ambulance services. Additional emergency vehicles, equipment and machinery have also been deployed to strengthen response capabilities and ensure rapid intervention during emergencies.

The deployment complements the CDAA’s network of emergency service points along roads leading to Dhofar. This year, the authority has expanded ambulance services in Al Jazer in Al Wusta, introduced additional services in Ashkharah in South Sharqiyah, and established new facilities in Shahab Asaib and Harit in Dhofar to improve emergency coverage.

The authority also warned visitors against swimming in undesignated areas, including springs, water pools, waterfalls and beaches, citing the strong waves and currents that characterise Dhofar’s coastline during the khareef season.

Families have been urged to closely supervise children, particularly near water bodies and on slippery or elevated terrain. Tourist establishments, companies and institutions have also been instructed to ensure fire protection systems are operational and comply with all preventive safety requirements.

The CDAA said it will intensify inspections and awareness campaigns throughout the season and take legal action against safety violations, with the aim of ensuring a safe and enjoyable khareef season for residents and visitors alike.