In an emergency every second counts and it could mean the difference between life and death. Currently, there’s no single emergency number in South Africa so it’s very important for you to have the correct contact details handy for a speedy response to your specific emergency.

Before you call

Always make sure that it’s a real emergency before you call as tying up emergency lines could lead to the prolonged suffering or death of someone else.

When calling an emergency number, make sure that you have the following information ready:

• Specific details about the location (address) of the incident or potential patient. Provide landmarks if you can.
• Specific details of the incident. Speak clearly and as calmly as you can to the person taking your call.
• Specific details about the contact person (name and telephone number). Make sure that the telephone line remains available until emergency services arrive at the scene.
• If applicable, a description of the suspect(s) and/or vehicle(s) involved.
• In the case of a stolen motor vehicle, the registration number, make, model and colour are important during the initial report.
• Where applicable, if the patient(s) involved in the incident is conscious and breathing, a description of the injuries sustained.

Depending on the nature of your emergency, you can call the appropriate emergency number below:

Other relevant information: