BPC proves a paradox: an exaggerated desire to call 112 help can turn into a disservice

But the opposite effect is also possible: unmeasured calling or even public calls to “flood” the 112 helpline with calls, demanding the desired result immediately, reminds BPC representatives more of sabotage than concern for public safety or well-being.

Many calls did not help. Even more would have helped?

The problem of misuse of the emergency number was recently reminded by the tragedy that happened on the “Via Baltica” road, when a person died. The services were called many times to the highway where the broken down truck was parked. The police did not take the decision to forcibly remove the vehicle. A terrible accident happened in the dark: another tractor-trailer crashed into the semi-trailer, and the driver’s mate, who was traveling in its cab, was killed.

Against the background of the tragedy, many commentators on the Internet were overcome with emotions, among other things, there were suggestions to “bombard” in similar cases, “flood” the General Assistance Center with mass messages about the same event, thus demanding an effective response.

“According to KET, cars cannot be parked on the highway. But not in Lithuania!! The tractor was left on the carriageway only after descending from the railway overpass.

The best medicine is to call 112 and report. Flood with messages until such vehicles are towed. The safety of all of us is our business, because there are no responsible services! Generally speaking, it’s your own fault, you idiots, if you kill yourself!”, the author of another post poured out his fury on his Facebook account.

Indeed, the representatives of the general assistance center often agree with this principle: residents are encouraged not to remain indifferent – to report impending dangers to the responsible services, where professionals are expected to have the competence to assess possible risks. Still, moderation, a sober mind is necessary.

When a large number of calls are received at the same time, operators may not be able to respond to all of them in a timely manner, thereby affecting people who are simultaneously trying to call for a fire, emergency or other emergencies that require a quick response.

“It has been mentioned that Facebook panelists are suggesting to ‘flood’ the 112 number with messages.” This is a very bad proposal”, Vilma Juozevičiūtė, the public relations representative of the General Assistance Center, bluntly assessed.