Today, 11 February is the
European 112 Day, a day aimed at raising public awareness
of Europe’s emergency number, 112. With this free-to-call number, people across Europe can immediately reach the local police, ambulance or fire services. The 112 number was introduced 25 years
ago, yet a survey shows that only 48% of EU citizens know that 112 is the emergency number to call in all Member States. Differences also remain between EU countries (Poland and Luxembourg having
the highest awareness levels with 83% and 80%, respectively). This is why the Commission pursues its efforts to inform Europeans, especially the youngest ones, and is reaching out this year to the
Erasmus+ network to enlist its support. Commissioner
Oettinger, in charge of the
Digital Economy and Society, and Commissioner
Navracsics, responsible for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, said: “112 became the single European emergency number a
generation ago. It is especially important that young people – who increasingly travel, study or work across borders – know the number that can save lives across the EU. We urge all those involved
in the Erasmus+ programme to help spread the message about 112.”
