Many residents are hesitant about calling emergency numbers even during critical situations, it is learnt. A sense of fear and apprehension, which is largely unfounded and hard to justify, is the main reason behind such behaviour, according to sources. \r\nThis was evident recently when some residents of a Doha neighbourhood were reluctant to call up the authorities concerned when a fire broke out in their building. The incident took place at a mixed-use complex in Najma a little after midnight during one of the Eid days. Residents, despite being alerted about the fire by a grocer, were reportedly hesitant to contact the authorities for help. It was only after 5-6 minutes, which could amount to a critical delay in some cases, that somebody finally called up the Civil Defence. |