Determining the need for and ensuring emergency assistance

In order to provide emergency assistance, emergency messages must be promptly received, the need for assistance must be exactly determined and assistance must be promptly dispatched. Communication channels must work 24/7 in order to ensure the movement of information and the mutual communication between those in need of assistance and those providing assistance. Not all messages require urgent intervention and assistance, so an information exchange centre that links the state, local governments and residents is to be established.
  • The need for assistance arising from a dangerous situation or accident must reach the right people quickly and clearly. The development of technology in most part supports this, for instance by making it possible to locate the position of people in need of assistance, but it also entails new risks. The constant internal migration of the population in Estonia is a challenge – urbanisation and suburbanisation, with only a few – often older – people left to live in many rural areas. It is the role of the state to ensure that even in a changing environment everyone’s need for assistance reaches the correct institutions, and is responded to accordingly with the use of various means of communication.
  • The mutual exchange of information between agencies can be improved; the provision of assistance must not be impeded by deficient communication. We therefore need to further develop the capacity of the Emergency Response Centre in organising rescue and police logistics and mediating information in a prompt and uninterrupted manner 24/7. Among other things, reliable alternative solutions must be developed for this purpose. 
  • Not all messages require immediate intervention and assistance, but they still require responding to and a functioning support system must be established for this purpose. People need information about the functioning of the state. In order to make access to information as convenient as possible, it is important to create a single contact point which provides information on a day-to-day basis as well as during crises when society’s need for information is significantly greater. It is important to ensure that information can be accessed using various means of communication. 

By 2030, at least 95% of the people are satisfied with the receiving of and response to emergency messages.

Last updated: 28.06.2023