The top emergency numbers every South African should have

At Santam, we’re committed to ensure that our operations continue without compromising service levels during these extraordinary times, and we wish to reassure you that we’re here when you need us most. That’s why we’ve put together a few tips along with important emergency numbers in South Africa, which can assist you in most emergency situations.

Got an emergency. What now?

It's easy to get caught up in a panic, but remember to try to stay calm and have these details on hand so emergency services know exactly how to reach you.

1. The nature of the emergency;
2. Exact location of the incident (including nearby landmarks); and
3. The details about any injuries.

Remember: never hang up until you are told to do so.

SOUTH AFRICA EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Nationwide Emergency Response - 10111

Dial the telephone number 10111 from anywhere in South Africa and a call centre operator will answer the incoming call, take all necessary particulars and assign the complaint to a Flying Squad patrol vehicle, or the local police station, to attend the incident.

Call 112 from any cell phone in South Africa. You will then reach a call centre and they will route you to an emergency service closest to you.

When you dial this number you will reach an automated menu. Don't let this frustrate you. The menu acts as a form of triage (priority of treatment) control and filters out abuse of the medical and emergency system.

Ambulance - 10177

This number can be used in the case of a medical emergency and can be called in conjunction with both the fire and police department respectively, depending on whether or not there are casualties.

We wish you all the best during this extraordinary time and will keep you fully informed from our side, as the situation evolves.