Emergency Number Needs More Visibility - Prendergast
“More than two thirds of Irish people are still unaware that they can dial 112 anywhere in Europe in case of emergency”, said Labour MEP for Munster, Phil Prendergast, today marking the fourth anniversary of the European 112 day. “The latest EU Survey on 112 awareness was just published this month. It struck me that 1 out of 5 Irish people surveyed quote a wrong number when asked about whether they know the number they can dial anywhere in the EU in case of emergency.
Ms. Prendergast said: “While the level of awareness has increased over the past few years - up to 29% of our citizens know the 112 number as opposed to 14% in 2008 - we need to keep spreading the word about this very simple, and potentially life-saving, 3-digit number, especially as increasing numbers of young people leave to study and work on the Continent.
“You can dial 112 anywhere in the EU, and also Croatia, Norway and Iceland, where an emergency responder can answer your call and speak to you in English. Just over a year ago, EU Commissioner for Transportation Siim Kallas wrote to transport companies across the continent, asking them to help the EU spread awareness of 112. I would encourage Irish companies to come on board in 2013”.
“There is also a package aimed at school children, provided by the 112 foundation that teachers can use in class. This should be part of the knowledge imparted to elementary students when teachers talk kids through essential safety practices. You can also send 112 e-cards to your friends. I’ll be doing that over this week to spread the word”.
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Weather for Tipperary
Sunday 19 May 2013
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