Moldova 112 misuse: Pranks, school skips, and consequences
Misusing emergency services can endanger lives. In Moldova, a staggering 45% of calls made to the national 112 number last year were non-urgent, prompting officials to raise concerns and warn of consequences.
Pranks, skipping school, and finding phone numbers:
According to Anna Carpovici, the service's spokesperson, some citizens call 112 for trivial reasons like prank calls, delaying airport trips, or even finding phone numbers for public institutions. Even worse, some students reportedly abuse the service to avoid school classes by requesting fire department interventions.
Overloaded lines and potential fines:
With over 2.4 million calls received in 2023, half of them non-urgent, the 112 service faces potential overload. While 95% of calls receive a response within 15 seconds, the remaining 5% can face extended wait times, potentially impacting genuine emergencies. To deter misuse, authorities warn of fines up to 3,000 lei (around $150) or community service for 40-60 hours for those making prank calls.
Ensuring timely response for real emergencies:
The 112 service, launched in 2018, plays a crucial role in timely emergency response. Misuse not only wastes valuable resources but also puts lives at risk by delaying help for those in genuine need. Raising awareness and implementing stricter penalties are crucial steps to ensure the service's effectiveness and protect those who truly need it.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
