European 112 Day
 In Finland we use only one, joint authority emergency number – 112. Within Europe, 112 also works as an emergency number that can be called free of charge either on a land line or via a mobile telephone. In most European Union countries, however, other emergency numbers are still being used alongside 112.
Since December 2008 citizens have been able to contact emergency response centres from anywhere in the EU by calling the Pan-European 112 emergency number.
According to EU-wide survey research authorised by the European Comission, 94 per cent of EU citizens consider it beneficial that the EU has one uniform emergency number. However, only 24 per cent of Europeans recognise 112 as a number that can be called in all EU countries in case of emergency. Awareness of the EU emergency number varies greatly according to country, from 3 per cent in Italy to 58 per cent in the Czech Republic. In Finland, 47 per cent of the population are aware that 112 can be called in an emergency throughout the EU.
To broaden recognition of 112 across the continent the European Commission, together with the European Parliament and European Council, has declared 11 February as European 112 Day. Finland's participation takes the form of 112 Day events organised across the country.
Further information:
EU Eurobarometer (pdf) »
112 website of the European Commission »
Information on 112 operation in EU Member States »
Information for children »
www.sos112.info
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