National Emergency Number Day is observed in Finland on February 11 every year. However, they did not pick this day at random! The date is February 11 since the common European Union emergency number is 112. National Emergency Number Day aims to encourage people to identify dangerous situations and prevent accidents in schools, at home, and in all public spaces. The day also instructs people to act promptly and responsibly in emergencies and minimize the harm caused. National Emergency Number Day is also the day to update the emergency contact numbers on your phone.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBER DAY
Before 112, there used to be a wide variety of local emergency centers and emergency numbers in Finland. The national emergency number 000 was introduced in 1983, and the common emergency number 112 of the E.U. was set in 1993. The Emergency Response Center Agency was established in 2001, and the emergency number 10022 of the police was in use until 2011. And in 2021, the Emergency Response Center Agency in Finland could be reached at 112.
The current emergency number 112 was introduced in Europe in early 1993. 112 is the common emergency number of the E.U., but member states have significant differences in how the number works. In some countries, residents might need to use a combination of emergency numbers to have their grievances addressed.
The Emergency Response Center Agency is responsible for answering emergency calls, deciding their urgency, and alerting the rescue services, the police, the Border Guard, social services, or health care authorities for immediate and empathetic action. In 2019, a nationwide emergency response center information called the ERICA was introduced in the European Union. The introduction of the new emergency response information system made it possible to deploy an intricate model that would respond to emergencies and accidents. The new system allowed emergency response center services to be carried out with greater certainty and quality, including in mass congregation and disturbance events. National Emergency Number Day acknowledges the crucial work that first responders do in keeping us alive and safe.
NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBER DAY TIMELINE
1972
112
112 becomes the general emergency number worldwide because it’s easy to remember.
1997
The First National Emergency Number Day
Also known as 112 Day, the day is observed in Finland for the first time.
2002
112 Becomes Mandatory
The emergency number becomes mandatory in all E.U. member states.
2021
112 in Sign Language
Finland introduces the emergency contact number in sign languages.
NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBER DAY FAQS
What happens if you dial 112?
You are redirected to the nearest emergency center when you call an emergency number.
Is 911 the same as 112?
911 is currently used in North America, while 112 is common across the E.U. and many other countries worldwide.
Does 112 track your location?
Yes, the emergency call center will know the location of calls placed to 112 from mobile phones.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBER DAY
Thank first responders
A great way to celebrate National Emergency Number Day is by thanking first responders and those who work in emergency services. Thank them for their vigilance and selfless duty.
Update your contact list
Apart from the public helpline numbers, it’s also helpful to keep contacts of your friends and family on your emergency contact list. Observe National Emergency Number Day by updating your emergency contact list.
Share the number
Emergency numbers are crucial and must be memorized by everyone. Yet you will find many people who are unaware of them. List all the emergency numbers and share them with your friends on National Emergency Number Day.
5 HELPFUL FACTS ABOUT EMERGENCIES
Never tilt your head back during nosebleeds
Instead, pinch your nostrils for 10 minutes or so until the bleeding stops.
Do not apply butter to burns
Try using cool water on them instead.
Do not put cold meat on a black eye
The microorganisms in the meat can worsen the pain.
Do not apply a hot compress to swollen ankles
Cold is the best way to combat swelling.
Help choking victims with the Heimlich maneuver
Ensure you know how to do it properly, as applying the Heimlich maneuver without proper understanding can do more harm than good.
WHY NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBER DAY IS IMPORTANT
It saves lives
Emergency numbers can save lives. In dangerous situations, emergency numbers are needed to summon help from first responders and experts. National Emergency Number Day celebrates the importance of these numbers.
It’s an important initiative
The initiative to have a common emergency number across the European Union is instrumental if you are stuck in unknown territories. It allows you to get help quickly without wasting time figuring out the local emergency numbers.
It recognizes first responders
National Emergency Number Day also celebrates the incredible work that first responders do. We acknowledge their crucial role in saving lives and maintaining law and order by thanking them on this day.
Comments