Understanding Emergency Services in Danish Traffic

Emergency services in Denmark are a coordinated network of public organizations designed to respond swiftly to critical incidents that threaten life, property, or public safety. These typically include the Police (Politi), Fire Brigade (Brandvæsen), and Ambulance Service (Ambulance). In urgent situations, all these services can be reached by dialling the nationwide emergency number 112, which connects you to an 'alarmcentral' or emergency call centre responsible for dispatching the appropriate aid.

Knowing about these services is fundamental for all road users. As a driver, you are expected to not only respond safely to emergencies you encounter but also to be able to effectively call for help when needed. This includes understanding what constitutes an emergency, how to provide clear information, and what actions to take while waiting for assistance.

When to Contact Emergency Services (Ring 112)

Dialling 112 should be reserved for genuine emergencies where immediate help is required. Common situations on the road that warrant calling 112 include:

• Serious Accidents: If there are injuries, trapped individuals, a risk of fire, or significant damage blocking the road.
• Fires: Any vehicle fire, roadside fire, or building fire that poses a risk to traffic or people.
• Medical Emergencies: Sudden severe illness (e.g., heart attack, stroke) in a vehicle or roadside, where immediate medical attention is needed.
• Dangerous Obstructions: Large debris, overturned vehicles, or other hazards that cannot be safely managed by yourself and pose an immediate danger to other road users.
• Criminal Activity: If you witness a serious crime in progress, such as a theft involving a vehicle or a violent incident.

For non-urgent police matters, such as reporting minor damage or a stolen bicycle, you should contact the police non-emergency number (114 in Denmark). Misusing the 112 number can delay help for real emergencies.

What Information to Provide to 112

When you call 112, the emergency operator will ask for crucial details to ensure the fastest and most appropriate response. Be prepared to provide:

• What happened: Briefly describe the nature of the emergency (e.g., "a car accident with injuries," "a vehicle on fire").
• Where it happened: Give the exact location, including street names, nearest crossroads, road numbers (e.g., E45, O2), specific landmarks, and direction of travel. In Denmark, many roads have mileage markers or other specific location signs.
• Who is involved: How many people, what types of vehicles.
• Are there injuries? How many people are injured, and what is the apparent severity of their injuries.
• Your name and phone number: In case they need to call you back.

Stay calm, speak clearly, and listen carefully to the operator's instructions. Do not hang up until they tell you to, as they may need more information or to provide you with advice.

Actions to Take While Waiting for Help

After calling 112, your actions at the scene are critical for safety and to assist the arriving emergency services. Remember the following:

• Ensure your safety first: If safe to do so, move yourself and any uninjured passengers to a safe location away from traffic.
• Secure the accident scene: Turn on your hazard warning lights. If you have a warning triangle, place it at a suitable distance behind your vehicle to alert oncoming traffic (typically 100 metres on open roads, less in urban areas).
• Provide first aid if trained and safe: Only if you are trained and it is safe to do so, provide basic first aid to injured persons.
• Do not move injured persons: Unless there is an immediate danger (e.g., fire), do not move injured individuals.
• Cooperate with emergency services: Follow any instructions given by the police, fire brigade, or ambulance personnel upon their arrival.

Emergency Services and Your Danish Driving Theory Exam

The Danish driving theory exam often includes questions related to emergency situations. You may be tested on:

• When to call 112: Identifying situations that require immediate emergency contact.
• Information to provide: Knowing what details are essential for the emergency operator.
• Actions at an accident scene: Understanding the correct procedures for securing the area and aiding casualties while waiting for help.
• First aid knowledge: Basic principles of first aid and when to apply them.

These questions assess your ability to react responsibly and effectively in critical situations, demonstrating your preparedness as a safe and competent driver in Denmark. Learning about emergency protocols is not just for the exam; it's a vital life skill for anyone on the road.