FAQs - In an emergency

• Why an EU-wide emergency number?

  To give you 1 single number you can use in an emergency wherever you are – so you don't have to remember a different number for every country.

  The EU-wide 112 means just one number that is operational throughout the EU and that we can all remember even under the pressure of an emergency situation.

• Does 112 replace national emergency numbers?

  NO - 112 operates in every EU country alongside the existing national emergency numbers. So if you know those numbers, you can also use them – the service will be the same.

  In some EU countries, 112 is the main emergency number anyway.

• When to use 112?

  In emergency situations only.

  112 is not an enquiry service or suchlike.

• How does 112 work?

  When you call 112, you will be connected to an operator who will pass you on to the emergency service you require.

• Which language(s) can I use to call 112?

  • The language(s) of the country you're in
  • English – in some countries
  • Other European languages – but this depends entirely on the country and the operators in place.

  There is no standard or minimum range of languages provided.

• How will 112 operators know where I am?

  If you're unable to speak properly or don't know exactly where you are, the operator will pass on as much information as possible about your location to the emergency services – either the address of the landline telephone or the location of your mobile phone.

• What are 116 numbers?

  This is a range of 5 free, European helpline numbers for children and adults in need, usable in most EU countries (though coverage is not yet universal).

  They give access to selected local help services.

  • 116 000 – hotline for missing children
  • 116 111 – helpline for children
  • 116 123 – emotional support helpline
  • 116 006 – helpline for crime victims
  • 116 117 – non-emergency medical assistance

  More on 116 numbers