112: Help at hand on the other end of the line
In need of emergency help? An ambulance? Immediate assistance from the police or fire brigade? No matter where you are in the European Union (EU), the only number you need to remember is: 112.
How many of us have watched our stove suddenly go up in flames? How many of us, in a moment of sudden panic, have thrown water on a burning pan? Can any of us claim that we've never imagined we could hear strange noises in the sitting room, while lying in bed with the door closed? But how many of us know exactly what to do in these situations if they actually get worse?
What should I do?
"Call for help" of course! But what’s the number? Is it 100, 101, 117 or 911? We all remember our national emergency numbers. Our survival may depend on it. But imagine that, at this precise moment, you are in another country in the EU. Would you know which number to call?
One number for the entire EU: 112
There is only one number you need to call in an emergency, wherever you are in the EU: 112.
Service still has a low profile
According to a survey, only 25% of Europeans know that this number exists. In Belgium, the Czech Republic and Poland, this figure is around 50%, while in other Member States of the EU, it barely reaches 10%.
And yet, 112 is listed in directories and is painted on emergency vehicles in most countries in the EU. It is available in every Member State – and has been for no less than 20 years.
Specific details
Calls to 112 are free. The number can be called from a landline or mobile and the location where the call is being made is identified immediately. Operators do not speak the languages of the 27 Member States of the EU, but they are guaranteed to be able to talk to you in English. They will transfer your call to the appropriate emergency service (police, fire brigade or ambulance) closest to you.