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Dial disaster — and hope with just one number
Back in 2016 the government announced a trial of an IESN, 112. This would connect to hospitals, fire stations and police offices in 100 cities.
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Illustration of bus accident (Shutterstock/conejota)
S
omething awful has happened. A bad road smash, a fire, a building collapse. A landslip. There are casualties. You’re first on the scene — who to call?
Take a pick — 110 or 112 for police, 113 for the fire brigade and 118 for an ambulance. Or 119.
Apart from mnemonists (people with extraordinary memories) and emergency professionals, who could recall the right digits in moments of peak stress? Having just one number that’s widely known would be a good start.
No disagreement — yet it seems that although the technology has long been available it hasn’t been matched by energy or will or both.
