The safety committee of Saudi Civil Defence in Jeddah has shut down 70 private schools for violating safety rules and regulations, Arab News has reported. The committee has also warned another 300 schools that punitive measures would be taken against them if they continue failing to fulfil safety specifications. There are 1,800 government schools and 600 private schools in Jeddah. "There will not be any leniency shown with regard to implementing the regulations that are aimed at ensuring safety of all those who use educational facilities," the Civil Defence said. According to the regulations, each school should produce safety certificates issued by an engineering consultancy firm approved by the municipality.