The European Emergency Number, also known as 112, is a telephone number that can be used to contact emergency services in all European Union countries, including Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

The European Emergency Number was introduced to make it easier for people travelling within the European Union to access emergency services.

What Happens When You Dial 112?

When you dial 112, your call is automatically directed to the emergency service in the country you are in.

The operator who answers the call will speak the language of the country you are in, but they should be able to speak English if you cannot speak the local language. The operator will ask you to describe the emergency and then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location.

What Emergencies Can You Use 112 For?

You can use 112 to report any emergency situation, including:.

Accidents
Illness and injuries
Fires and explosions
Criminal activity
Missing persons
Animal attacks
Natural disasters

Advantages of Using 112

The European Emergency Number has several advantages over other emergency numbers that are used in individual countries. The main advantages are:.

It is the same emergency number in every European Union country, making it easier for travellers to remember
It can be dialled from any landline or mobile phone, including phones with no network coverage or balance
The emergency services can locate the caller’s position using mobile phone location technology, where available

How to Remember the European Emergency Number

Remembering the European Emergency Number can save lives, so it is important to make sure that you and your family know the number. Here are some tips to help you remember 112:.

Write the number down and keep it in a prominent place in your home
Store the number in your phone contacts
Tell your friends and family about the number and encourage them to learn it too
Teach your children how to dial the number and explain to them what to do in an emergency

Conclusion

The European Emergency Number is a vital resource that can be used to access emergency services in all European Union countries.

Knowing the number and how to use it can save lives, so it is important to make sure that you and your loved ones are familiar with 112. Remember, in an emergency, every second counts, so don’t hesitate to dial the European Emergency Number if you need help.