By OLIVER SAMBOKO
RESCUE operation systems in the country should be harmonised to enhance response to disasters and other emergencies, a fire and rescue expert has said.
Mweene Kayoba said in an interview that there is also need for regular holding of joint mock emergencies across the country to check and test the preparedness for emergency and rescue operations.
He said in as much as the country has a disaster policy, the police, the fire brigade and other stakeholders have been working in isolation, a development which results in slow response to emergencies.
Mr Kayoba said there is urgent need to enact legislation to coordinate disaster response to allow for timely response to emergencies and other distress calls.
He said the country should ensure that rescue operations are well coordinated to minimize loss of life and also to ensure the country is well prepared in case of a disaster.
Mr Kayoba observed that Zambia has continued losing lives during accidents and other disasters because the country has no well-coordinated response system in place which results in delayed response to emergencies.
He said disasters can disrupt lives as it has lasting negative effects on both people and property, and therefore need for the country to be ready all the time.
