How to Contact Emergency Services in South Africa
- Daniel Kuipers
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Author: Daniel Kuipers, ROCKET National Provider Relations Manager
Learn how to contact emergency services quickly and effectively in South Africa. From knowing the right numbers to giving clear information using the L.I.F.E.S.A.V.E.R. method, this guide will help you stay prepared when every second counts.
1. Know the Emergency Numbers
South Africa has separate numbers for different emergencies:
Service | Number |
National Emergency (Ambulance, Police, Fire) | 112 (from any cell phone) |
Ambulance / Medical Emergency | 10177 |
Police (Crime, Assault, etc.) | 10111 |
Private Emergency | Varies per provider |
💡 Tip: Save these numbers to your phone and write them near your landline/office desk.
2. Stay Calm and Speak Clearly
When calling, speak slowly and clearly. Panic can delay help.
3. Provide Key Information
Use the L.I.F.E.S.A.V.E.R. method:
Location: Exact address, nearest landmarks or GPS coordinates
Incident Type: What has happened (e.g. car crash, shooting, house fire)
Fatalities or Injuries: Number and type (e.g. unconscious, bleeding, trapped)
Emergency Services Needed: Ambulance, Fire, Police – or all
Special Hazards: Fire, gas leak, violence, dangerous animals, etc.
Access: Gate codes, blocked roads, dogs, or obstacles
Victim Details: Age, gender, condition
Estimated Time of Incident: When it happened
Responder’s Contact: Your number in case they need to call back
4. Stay on the Line
Only hang up when instructed.
Follow instructions given by the operator.
They may guide you through basic first aid or how to assist the injured.
Ask for a reference number.
5. After the Call
If safe, send someone to guide responders to the exact scene.
Stay with the patient unless it's unsafe.
Keep your phone available for follow-up.
6. Important Notes
Do not prank call emergency lines. It’s illegal and delays real help.
Teach children when and how to call for help.
Use emergency numbers only when life, property, or safety is at risk.
Quick Scenario Practice
Scenario: You witness a car crash at night outside your home.
Call 112 and say:
"There’s a serious car crash on N1 Northbound near the Rivonia off-ramp. Two cars involved. One person is unconscious and trapped. We need an ambulance and rescue team. I’m standing on the bridge in a white shirt. My number is 083 123 4567.”
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