PA2098. HelpMeGR: Towards an inclusive multimodal emergency call application

Abstract Issue/Problem Traditional emergency calling systems -such as 112- rely on the caller’s ability to speak, hear, and describe their situation under stress while providing accurate location information. Description of the problem This method presents challenges for individuals in unfamiliar regions or those with speech, hearing, visual, or cognitive impairments. Moreover, the lack of support for enhanced communication features, like text, video, and geolocation, can result in critical delays during emergency response. These shortcomings highlight the urgent need for a standardized, cross-border, and multimodal communication system to deliver user information directly to the appropriate Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). The Pan-European Mobile Emergency Application (PEMEA) initiative provides a standardized methodology for real-time bidirectional audio–video calls, text messages with Real-Time Text (RTT), and geolocation data across devices and PSAPs while being aligned with ETSI standards and the European Accessibility Act. Results This study presents the “HelpMeGR” mobile application, designed and implemented as a PEMEA-compliant emergency solution, integrating multiple communication channels and advanced media-handling features to optimize emergency response workflows. In addition to the functionalities of the PEMEA standard, HelpMeGR facilitates an image-to-text messaging feature, allowing users to select from an emergency and condition-specific icon set to generate an instant automated message. Lessons By integrating this feature alongside its inclusive design and an interface compliant with color vision accessibility guidelines, HelpMeGR ensures that individuals with vision, speech, hearing, or cognitive impairments are also supported. By leveraging the PEMEA architecture, HelpMeGR assists in overcoming the localization limitations of traditional emergency services, enriches emergency workflows, and supports a wide spectrum of users, paving the way for the modernization of efficient, coordinated emergency response. Key messages • Integrating audio, video, and text channels within a single application enhances emergency response workflows while the use of an icon-based image-to-text feature reduces language barriers. • By ensuring users are always connected to the correct PSAP, HelpMeGR assists in overcoming localization limitations of traditional emergency services, thus enhancing cross-border interoperability. Topic NG112, Public safety, Emergency communications.