Health Emergencies in South Africa
In a Medical Emergency
If someone is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call for help immediately.
National Emergency Numbers
- 112– National emergency number (works from all mobile phones)
- 10177– Provincial Ambulance and Fire Services
- 10111– South African Police Service (SAPS)
- 084 124– ER24 Emergency Medical Services
- 082 911– Netcare 911 Emergency Services
Always remain calm and provide:
- Your exact location
- The nature of the emergency
- Number of injured or ill persons
- Your contact number
- Any obvious hazards at the scene
The national 112 emergency number is available free from mobile phones and is intended to connect callers with emergency services.
When to Call an Ambulance
Call immediately if someone has:
- Chest pain or suspected heart attack
- Difficulty breathing
- Stroke symptoms
- Severe bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes
- Serious burns
- Major injuries after a vehicle accident
- Suspected spinal injury
- Severe allergic reaction
- Poisoning or overdose
Recognise the Warning Signs of a Stroke (FAST)
F – Face
One side of the face droops.
A – Arms
Unable to raise one arm.
S – Speech
Speech is slurred or difficult.
T – Time
Call emergency services immediately.
Signs of a Heart Attack
Seek emergency care immediately if someone experiences:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck or back
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden dizziness
Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis)
Symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- Severe rash or hives
- Collapse or fainting
- Call emergency services immediately.
Choking Emergency
Adults and Children
- Encourage coughing if they can cough.
- If they cannot breathe or speak, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
- If trained, perform appropriate first aid while waiting for emergency responders.
Severe Bleeding
- Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
- Elevate the injured limb if possible.
- Do not remove objects embedded in the wound.
- Call for emergency medical assistance.
Burns – Minor
- Cool under cool running water for 20 minutes.
- Cover with a clean, non-stick dressing.
Burns – Major
- Call an ambulance immediately.
- Do not apply butter, toothpaste or ice.
- Do not burst blisters.
Seizures
During a seizure:
- Stay calm.
- Protect the person's head.
- Remove nearby dangerous objects.
- Do not place anything in their mouth.
- Turn them onto their side once the seizure ends.
Call emergency services if:
- The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
- It is their first seizure.
- They do not regain consciousness.
- They are injured.
Poisoning
If poisoning is suspected:
- Do not force vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
- Keep the medicine or chemical container.
- Call emergency services immediately.
Emergency Preparedness Tips
Every household should keep:
- First aid kit
- Chronic medication
- Emergency contact numbers
- Medical aid information
- List of allergies
- Identification documents
- Flashlight
- Bottled water
Before Help Arrives
While waiting for emergency responders:
- Stay with the patient.
- Keep them calm and comfortable.
- Monitor breathing.
- Follow instructions from the emergency call operator.
- Do not move someone with suspected neck or back injuries unless they are in immediate danger.
Disclaimer
The information provided on HealthIgnite.org is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. In any life-threatening emergency, call your nearest emergency service immediately or go to the nearest emergency department.
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