Emergency Call 112

In an emergency situation, it is crucial to call for help quickly and provide location

details as precisely as possible. Let’s look at the different ways you can make an

emergency call and what information you should provide.

Ways to Make an Emergency Call

• Landline or Mobile Phone

You can call emergency services from both a landline and a mobile phone.

Dial 112, the emergency number for medical assistance.

Even without recep4on or credit, the call can still go through.

• SOS Shortcut on Smartphones

Many smartphones have an SOS func4on triggered by rapidly pressing the

power buIon several times.

• Emergency Call Stations

On highways, emergency call pillars are placed approximately every 2 km.

Red buIon: for accidents and the Yellow buIon: for breakdown assistance

• SOS Button in Vehicles

Some cars have a built-in SOS buIon that sends your GPS location and automatically

requests help.

Placing an Emergency Call: What to Say

When calling 112, providing accurate informa4on is essential so that

emergency services can reach the scene quickly.

1. Dial 112:

The unified emergency number across Europe.

2. State the exact location:

Be as precise as possible:• Street name, house number, floor

• Landmarks

• On highways: kilometer marker and direction of travel

3. Stay on the line:

Remain on the phone until the dispatcher has all necessary details.

They can also guide you through first aid procedures. 

Giving Accurate Location Information

When describing where you are, be specific:

• Towns/Urban Areas:

Give the town name, street, and house number.

• Federal Roads (Bundesstraßen):

Use station markers placed every 200–500 meters.

• State and Regional Roads:

Markers are usually every 500 meters.

Estimated Arrival Time & Ambulance Costs

• Arrival Time:

Ambulances typically take 10–15 minutes to arrive, depending on distance and traffic.

• Costs:

Ambulance costs are usually covered by health insurance if medically necessary.

Navigation on Large Company Grounds

• Multiple Helpers: On large industrial sites, several helpers should guide the

ambulance to the exact location.

• Clear Directions: Use signs, maps, or digital naviga4on tools to show the fastest

route.

• Stay in contact: Keep communicating with the control center in case obstacles or

delays arise.

In most countries, 112 complements na4onal emergency numbers. It can be dialed

from any phone — even without a SIM card or available credit.