All about emergency call terminals

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All about emergency call terminals

An emergency call terminal is a telephone station that allows for quick contact with emergency services in case of an emergency. This device is generally visible along highways and expressways, but also on beaches for some time now. When should you use an emergency call terminal? What are the characteristics of this device?

What is an emergency call terminal?

If you are used to driving on highways, you must have noticed small orange telephone booths along the roads. These are none other than emergency call terminals, also known as SOS terminals or emergency posts. As their name suggests, these devices allow for emergency calls. In France, emergency call terminals are found every two kilometers along emergency lanes.

Emergency call terminals are recognizable by their orange, yellow, or red color. The inscription “emergencies” or “SOS” may also be visible on the booth. One of the peculiarities of this device is that it is geolocated.

No matter where you make the call from the terminal, your interlocutor will be able to find your location. Another peculiarity is that the user does not have to dial a number to make an emergency call. They simply need to press a button and will be directly connected to an emergency call management center. The operator on the line will be responsible for contacting the services appropriate to the situation. This may include doctors, ambulances, firefighters, or breakdown services.

The advantage of the emergency call terminal is that you can contact emergency services at any time, wherever you are. Whether you have misplaced your smartphone or its battery is dead, you will have no trouble getting assistance or rescue. Moreover, thanks to geolocation, you will not have to indicate your position. An emergency call terminal is powered by photovoltaic panels, and the connection is provided by the GSM network or fiber optics. Except in case of device failure or malfunction, you will be assured of immediate assistance. If no agent can receive your call, you have the option to leave a message. Your request will then be processed within a maximum of 25 minutes.

Emergency call terminal:

How and when to use it?

Emergency call terminals are devices designed to help people in emergency situations. While we mostly see them on highways, they are also available in train stations, industrial buildings, and even on beaches.

You can use an emergency call terminal in various situations:

in case of vehicle breakdown;
in case of a road accident (whether you are a victim or a witness);
in case of a passenger feeling unwell;
in case of an incident on the beach (drowning, sting, injury…);
in case of distress (theft, attack, assault…).

In short, whenever you need assistance from emergency services, you can use an emergency call terminal. Whether you have a phone or not, you can use the device. It is also more recommended to use the SOS terminal rather than a personal phone in an emergency situation because it is geolocated. It will be easier for emergency services to find the location of the event. Since the device is located every two kilometers, you will have no difficulty finding one on your way.

To use an emergency call terminal, simply pick up the handset and press a button. On some devices, there is a speaker function, facilitating the call in cases where you are unable to hold the handset. Depending on the model, the device may include an indicator light that will show the call status. If it is off, you can press the call button. While waiting for the operator’s response, the indicator will flash. As soon as the light is steady, you can speak and report the emergency situation.

For better assistance, you should provide as many details as possible about the event for which you are requesting assistance. Only hang up when the agent on the line asks you to.