In 2025, almost half (43%) of calls received by the single emergency number 112 were not considered to be emergency calls, according to the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) statement on 11th February.
On February 11th, Latvia and the rest of Europe celebrate the single emergency number 112 Day, so the VUGD reminds everyone that the 112 number should be called in situations that threaten human life, health, the environment, or property.
Although awareness of the 112 number continues to grow among the Latvian public, data shows that a significant proportion of calls are still made in situations that are not considered emergencies, thus delaying assistance to those who really need it. Over the past two years, approximately 1.2 million calls have been received annually on 112.
In 2024, 27% of these calls were not related to emergencies, while in 2025, the proportion of such calls increased to almost half, or 43% of all calls received.
The State Fire and Rescue Service has compiled a list of the most common non-emergency situations in which residents call 112, even though other solutions should be used in such situations.
Residents report utility problems – water leaks in their homes, broken pipes, power outages, or problems with their electricity meters. People also call to find out information such as what time it is, what the date is, or how to fill out an accident report form.
Calls are also received from people wanting to call a taxi or asking for someone to be taken home.
There are also times when the number combination 112 or the “Emergency Call” button is pressed by small children playing.
Residents have also called the emergency services after losing their keys, asking them to open doors, as well as in cases of mobile phone communication problems.
The State Fire and Rescue Service also reminds people that 112 should not be used to report animals whose lives are not in danger, such as seals on the beach, cats in trees, or birds on ice.
Calls to 112 are also received from people who want to complain, vent their emotions, or find out the status of their request, including asking questions about the arrival time of the crew.
The State Fire and Rescue Service reminds that such non-emergency calls create an additional burden on 112 dispatchers, occupy communication lines, and may delay assistance in life-threatening situations where even seconds are crucial.
You should only call 112 in situations where you need immediate help from emergency services—the State Fire and Rescue Service, the State Police, or the Emergency Medical Service—because your life, health, environment, or property is in danger.
The State Fire and Rescue Service also reminds you about the “112 Latvia” app, which has been operating in the country for two years. Currently, just over 140,000 Latvian residents have downloaded the app.
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date:2026-02-11 08:32:00