The city of Shanghai will put its emergency response center into operation this month to ensure that it can respond effectively to any major emergencies and provide first-aid to local residents. 

"It doesn't mean that the city is facing big security challenges. We set up the center to avoid future problems," said Hong Hao, deputy secretary-general of the Shanghai municipal government.

The center will co-ordinate resources in dealing with disaster or other major emergencies, according to He Pinwei, director of the Shanghai Emergency Response Center.

"The center has incorporated the functions of the previous security and fire alarm centers, and it will include first-aid soon," said He.

And it will be able to provide more comprehensive help.

"The center will be able to mobilize many more resources than the previous security or fire centers could, in an effort to minimize damages incurred," said He.

The center’s network will include 17 units concerning water, electricity, power and other services and will incorporate others in the future.

"After answering the call, an operator experienced in dealing with alarm calls will first judge its importance and then pass the call to a police officer, who will make the final decision and take the appropriate measures," he said.

"For the three downtown districts, Luwan, Jing'an and Huangpu, the first assistance will arrive within eight minutes, and within 15 minutes for other districts and counties," said He.

The center will be able to answer calls in eight foreign languages to assist the city's growing expatriate community.

"After receiving the call, the operator will immediately add a police officer into the call, who will then work as an interpreter," said He.

(China Daily October 13, 2004)