Brussels, 08/02/2012 (Agence Europe) -11 February 2012 marks European 112 Day, and the 112 Foundation used the occasion to underline the importance of informing people about the usefulness of the 112 number, which is the only emergency number that can be used to reach emergency services (ambulance, fire-fighters and police) in all EU countries free of charge. Despite the many information campaigns, citizens are as unaware of 112 in 2012 as they were in 2008, when the number was introduced (only one European out of four know the number). Even worse, average knowledge about the number is even decreasing in some countries. Emmanuel Paul, the president of the 112 Foundation pointed out that, “each year, more than 150 million people travel all over the EU, they should all know 112! Now it is time to go ahead; we cannot wait five more years to make European citizens aware of such a vital number!” The 112 Foundation, together with the European Commission, has asked several dozen transport companies (airlines, trains, ferries) to help publicise the 112 number. Several companies such as EasyJet, KLM or Thalys have already pledged themselves to such an initiative. The 112 Foundation has also produced a video that can be used by every citizen or organisation willing to promote 112. (IL/transl.fl)