Abu Dhabi: A fisherman in distress near Zirku Island has been successfully rescued by the National Search and Rescue Centre of the National Guard. The operation took place after the centre received a distress call from a fishing vessel located approximately 10 nautical miles off Zirku Island. According to Emirates News Agency, the National Guard promptly pinpointed the vessel's location and dispatched a search and rescue boat affiliated with the Coastal Guard. The team was accompanied by a medical team from the Zirku Island Clinic. The injured fisherman received immediate first aid upon reaching the rescue boat and was subsequently transferred to the clinic on the island for further medical treatment. The National Guard has emphasized the crucial importance of adhering to maritime safety procedures. They have urged all seafarers to utilize the maritime emergency hotline (996) in any emergency situation to ensure a swift response and safeguard lives.