Emergency numbers in South Africa: who to call and what to do
3 min read · Facts checked
The short answer
From a mobile phone, dial 112. The police are on 10111 and the public ambulance service on 10177. For private medical emergencies, ER24 is on 084 124 and Netcare 911 on 082 911. South Africa has no single national number for every emergency, so save these before you travel.
Save these numbers
- 112: emergency calls from any mobile phone
- 10111: South African Police Service (SAPS)
- 10177: ambulance
- 0860 010 111: SAPS Crime Stop (tip-offs)
- 084 124: ER24 private emergency medical services
- 082 911: Netcare 911 private emergency medical services
If you need medical help
Major cities have well-equipped private hospitals with 24-hour emergency units. Keep your travel insurance details on your phone and with a travel companion; many insurers have an emergency assistance line that can direct you to the right facility.
If you are a victim of crime
- Get to a safe place first, then call 10111 or 112.
- Report the incident at the nearest police station and ask for a case number, which you will need for insurance.
- Cancel lost cards immediately and contact your embassy if your passport is stolen.
When you travel with Envo Prestige
Every vehicle carries a first-aid kit, routes are planned with hospitals and pharmacies in mind, and our operations desk can coordinate help and alternative transport if anything goes wrong.
Frequently asked questions
What is the emergency number in South Africa?
Dial 112 from a mobile phone. For police dial 10111, and for an ambulance 10177.
Is there a single emergency number in South Africa?
No. 112 works from mobile phones, but police (10111) and ambulance (10177) have separate numbers, and private services have their own.
Sources
Rules, advisories and schedules change. Always check the official source before you travel.
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