Ratek becomes mascot of Poland’s 112 emergency number
Lublin’s emergency centre names Ratek as mascot to teach children about the 112 emergency number and first aid.
The 112 emergency number took a friendlier face in Lublin when the regional emergency dispatch unveiled Ratek as its new mascot. The event rewarded schoolchildren who created invitations and board games to teach safety and first aid.
Event and winners in Lublin
The Centre for Emergency Notification in Lublin held a contest for primary schools. Consequently, dozens of pupils entered in two age categories. In addition, the provincial governor Krzysztof Komorski handed the prizes. He praised the students for spreading knowledge about emergency procedures. Moreover, organisers arranged a family picnic alongside the prize ceremony. Children played, met rescuers, and learned basic life-saving skills. Therefore, the contest combined education with community outreach.
About the 112 emergency number and Ratek
The winning name comes from Jan Skorupa, a pupil in Krzywda. He chose Ratek to signal rescue, quick help, and life-saving action. Older pupils created board games that included the mascot. Meanwhile, younger pupils designed invitations to invite Ratek to classroom lessons. The jury awarded top prizes to Zofia Mazurek and to Lena and Jakub Sawa. Consequently, the winners will help the centre promote responsible use of the emergency line.
Why this matters beyond a mascot
Children who learn how and when to call for help can act correctly in real emergencies. Moreover, teaching first aid early builds confidence and reduces panic. In addition, 112 works across the European Union, so knowing it helps travellers and residents alike. However, national nuances still matter. For example, Polish rescue services sometimes ask for a PESEL number (national ID number). Therefore, expats should memorise their address and any local ID numbers. As a result, responders can locate callers faster.
The Centre for Emergency Notification, called Centrum Powiadamiania Ratunkowego in Polish, coordinates ambulance dispatch in the region. Besides local services, Poland runs national systems like the National Health Fund (NFZ) for medical care and the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) for benefits. Consequently, callers often interact with multiple institutions after an incident. Moreover, learning to use 112 responsibly helps prevent misuse and fines (mandat) for false reports.
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