The EU's 112 emergency number connects people to urgent assistance. Knowing the number matters, but being able to explain where you are and what happened makes the call more useful.
Keep the purpose clear
Use emergency calling for an actual emergency, following the official guidance for the country. Do not test the number or use it for routine travel updates. Check any accessible emergency-contact arrangements you may need before travelling; do not assume a text or app service works identically across borders.
- Keep local non-emergency contacts separately.
- Tell travelling companions how to seek help.
Save the address offline
Record the accommodation's full address, locality and useful access information. If you travel to a remote place, learn how to describe the location and use maps appropriately. A business name alone can be ambiguous. Keep a paper copy for someone who cannot readily use the phone or whose battery is low.
- Include the country and local place spelling.
- Keep relevant care information accessible with consent.
Follow the call-handler's instructions
Explain the danger and answer questions as clearly as possible. Ask for language support where needed without assuming every operator speaks your language. Do not move into floodwater, smoke or another hazard to obtain a more precise location. Keep routes clear for responders and tell companions what is happening from safety.
- Keep your phone charged.
- Use official local instructions during the incident.
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