Barrier-Free Emergency Assistance: How to Quickly Access Emergency Services in Zhytomyr Region

Emergencies usually arise without warning. To receive timely assistance, it is essential not only to know where to turn, but also how to convey critical information and utilize alternative communication channels. This knowledge is particularly vital for older adults (50+), individuals with disabilities, people with hearing, visual, or speech impairments, and anyone experiencing severe stress.

Pursuant to the order of the Zhytomyr Regional Military Administration dated 09.10.2026 No. 1826 under the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Space in Ukraine until 2030, the Department of Health and CNP «Center for Medical Rehabilitation and Palliative Care for Children» of Zhytomyr Regional Council (brand «Vitryla Zhyttia») inform the community about modern barrier-free emergency communication channels.

112 — Single Emergency Number for All Services

In any emergency situation, citizens can call the single emergency number 112. The 112 dispatcher takes the information and instantly coordinates the required emergency services (SES / Fire Rescue — 101, National Police — 102, Emergency Medical Assistance — 103, Gas Emergency — 104). Calling 112 saves crucial seconds when lives are on the line.

The 112 Service also automatically handles distress signals received from smart devices (smartwatches) and the vehicle automatic crash notification system eCall.

Alternative Channels for People with Hearing and Speech Impairments

For residents of the Zhytomyr region with hearing or speech impairments, specialized text channels have been established for direct contact with the Emergency Medical Service (103):

SMS messages to dedicated mobile numbers:
• Kyivstar: 067 411-72-29
• Lifecell: 073 477-3-103
• Vodafone: 095 477-3-103
Messenger lines (Viber and Telegram):
• Viber: 073 477-3-103
• Telegram: 073 477-3-103
«112 Ukraine» Official Mobile App: allows sending emergency text alerts or initiating a live video call with certified sign language interpreters over the internet (including via Wi-Fi during mobile cellular network outages).

What to include in your initial text message:
«Emergency help needed» + Full Name & Age + exact location address + nature of emergency (e.g., «Unconscious adult, severe chest pain»). Follow up with any additional details requested by the dispatcher.

Advice for People with Visual Impairments or Severe Stress

For people with visual impairments: dial 112 for voice assistance. If it is difficult to determine the exact house number, identify nearby landmarks: a pharmacy, bus stop, store, school, or public building. The operator will guide emergency crews accordingly;
When speaking under acute stress or panic: take deep breaths and use short sentences. State the three essentials: WHAT HAPPENED → WHERE YOU ARE → WHO IS HURT;
Do not hang up first: stay on the line until the operator confirms that the dispatch is underway and all critical questions have been answered.

Universal 5-Step Action Protocol

1️⃣ Stay calm — panic hinders response time;
2️⃣ Clearly state what happened (medical emergency, trauma, fire);
3️⃣ Provide the exact location and landmark;
4️⃣ Report the number and condition of victims;
5️⃣ Carefully follow the dispatcher's instructions until help arrives.

Save the single emergency number 112 and the dedicated Zhytomyr regional contact numbers in your phone today. Emergency assistance must be barrier-free and accessible to everyone!