Emergency Call Day — 11 February 2026: Europe remembers 112
On 11 February 2026, Emergency Call Day highlights the EU-wide emergency number 112, a single, free and always-available way to reach fire, ambulance and police services across Europe. The day raises public awareness about how cross-border help works, marks the 35th anniversary of the common emergency number, and reminds everyone that quick, clear action can save lives.
How big the call volume is: the scale of emergency calls
Integrated control centers in Germany process millions of emergency calls every year. Recent national figures show one mobile provider reported about 4.7 million emergency calls in 2025 — roughly one call every seven seconds — while another major operator routed some 31.5 million emergency calls. Individual states also handle large volumes; for example, one federal state managed over 2.8 million emergency calls in the last year. These numbers underline how vital and busy emergency services are every day.
| Source | Reported Emergency Calls (annual) |
|---|---|
| Mobile provider (example) | 4,700,000 |
| Major operator (example) | 31,500,000 |
| Large federal state | 2,800,000+ |
| Total | Millions of emergency calls annually |
Technology that improves response: location, prioritisation and vehicle eCall
Technical advances in recent years are changing how quickly and accurately emergency services can respond. Two key developments are automatic smartphone location sharing and a modern vehicle emergency call system that works over 4G and 5G. These systems help dispatchers find callers even when phones are locked or networks are strained.
| Technology | Main Benefit |
|---|---|
| Advanced Mobile Location (AML) | Automatic and precise caller location for faster dispatch |
| Next Generation eCall (NG eCall) | Direct vehicle crash data and location over 4G/5G for quicker response |
| Result | Faster, more accurate rescues and better prioritisation of serious emergencies |
Advanced Mobile Location (AML)
Advanced Mobile Location (AML) can send a caller’s location automatically to the emergency number via short messages when a call is made. This reduces time lost asking for location details and can be lifesaving when callers cannot speak or are unsure where they are.
Next Generation eCall (NG eCall)
From 2026, a nationwide Next Generation eCall (NG eCall) system using 4G and 5G networks allows vehicles to transmit crash data and precise positions directly to control centers. NG eCall improves prioritisation and enables faster, more targeted rescue operations, including when mobile networks are busy.
How to call 112 and what information to give
Calling 112 is simple, but what you say matters. Dial the number without any country or area prefixes. Stay calm, speak clearly, and do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to. Answer follow-up questions and follow instructions. Proper information helps responders arrive prepared and fast.
- Where? Give the exact location or recognizable landmarks.
- What? Describe what happened (accident, fire, illness).
- How many? Tell how many people are involved or injured.
- Which injuries? Explain visible injuries or symptoms (unconscious, not breathing, heavy bleeding).
- Wait for questions — stay on the line and follow any instructions.
When to call 112 and when to use non-urgent medical services
112 should be used for life-threatening emergencies that require immediate help, such as severe chest pain, unconsciousness, not breathing, major bleeding, or active fires. For non-urgent medical complaints that need attention but are not life-threatening, special non-emergency medical numbers and services are available. Using the correct number helps keep emergency lines free for those in immediate danger and ensures resources like helicopters and ambulances are available where they are needed most.
- Life-threatening examples: heart attack, sudden loss of consciousness, severe breathing problems, heavy uncontrolled bleeding, active fire.
- Non-urgent examples: routine medical advice, prescription questions, minor injuries without serious symptoms — use designated non-urgent services.
Recognition for dispatchers and voices from the community
Dispatchers and control center staff work under great pressure and are often the first link in the emergency response chain. Public officials and community representatives praise their tireless dedication; dispatchers’ decisions directly influence survival and recovery. Many community leaders call the emergency number a lifeline and thank the people answering those calls day and night.
Emergency and rescue organisations also emphasise cooperation and better networking between services to optimise resources such as helicopter deployments and interregional assistance. Clear rules about which incidents need urgent intervention help ensure the right response is sent quickly.
Awareness, training and a simple call to action
Despite decades of the common emergency number, many people do not know it yet: recent surveys show around 19% of the population are unaware of or unsure about the number 112. That makes Emergency Call Day especially important. Remind friends and family, teach children the number and the five key questions, and save 112 in your phone. Remember that 112 works across borders in Europe, helping when people travel or when cross-border response is needed.
- Save 112 in your phone and show where to find it on every device.
- Teach the five W-questions to family members and children.
- Use 112 only for emergencies; use non-urgent numbers for routine medical needs.
- Learn basic first aid so you can help until professionals arrive.
- Share information about AML and vehicle eCall to build public confidence in modern emergency systems.
