Some 500,000 calls made to 112 • Over 7,000 fake calls in 2014

Police urge responsible use of emergency line 112

Around 500,000 calls were made to the Police’s emergency line 112 last year, with over 7,000 being fake calls. Over 22,000 calls were registered as “wrong numbers”.

Across the European Union, February 11 is dedicated to emergency number 112 as part of a yearly information campaign to reach out to the public.

The free service is accessible by both landlines and mobile phones. The Police Force have also launched an SMS number - 79770112 - to receive texts requesting assistance.

The emergency number connects directly to the Police headquarters’ command and control room and assistance can be sought from the Police Force, the Civil Protection Department, ambulance service and the Armed Forces of Malta.

“This number often involves life or death situations and its abuse prompts the Malta Police Force to continuously promote the service’s good use,” the Police Force said.

“It is imperative that the number is accessed only in genuine emergencies, which involve an immediate danger to health, property or the environment. Such cases may include, but are not limited to, traffic accidents, fires and break-ins.”

The police urged the public to refrain from using 112 to seek general information. “In particular, mobile phones should not be left in children’s hands or places where the emergency automatic dialling button could be easily hit,” the police said.

The Police Force explained that, when seeking assistance, it is important for callers to remain calm while giving an accurate description of what is going on and a precise address or any landmarks in the vicinity.

“Moreover, callers should clearly answer any questions asked and follow any instructions given, while remaining on the line until told to hang up. Should the line be occupied, it is imperative that one waits,” the Police said.