Emergencies can happen when we least expect them, and knowing who to call can be lifesaving. Whether it’s a medical crisis, safety concern, or emotional distress, having the right numbers at hand can make all the difference.
Here’s a comprehensive list of South African emergency hotlines, apps, community groups, and organisations, updated with the latest information.
National Emergency Numbers
- National Emergency Line (Ambulance, Fire, Police): 112 (from any mobile)
- Police Emergency Services: 10111
- Ambulance and Fire Brigade: 10177
Medical Emergency Services
- ER24 Emergency Medical Services: 084 124
- Netcare 911: 082 911
- Life Healthcare Emergency Line: 0860 532 532
Crime and Safety Hotlines
- Crime Stop (Report Crime Anonymously): 08600 10111
- Childline South Africa (Child Protection and Abuse): 0800 055 555 (childlinesa.org.za)
- GBV Command Centre (Gender-Based Violence Support): 0800 428 428 or SMS ‘HELP’ to 31531
Mental Health and Emotional Support
- Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
- Lifeline South Africa (Emotional Support): 0861 322 322 (lifelinesa.co.za)
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) Helpline: 0800 456 789 (sadag.org)
Family and Child Welfare
- Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 424 453
- Stop Human Trafficking Helpline: 0800 222 777
Substance Abuse Support
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): 0861 435 722 (aasa.org.za)
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA): 083 900 6962 (na.org.za)
- South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA): 011 892 3829 (sancanational.org)
Disaster and Relief Services
- South African Red Cross Society: 021 532 0202 (redcross.org.za)
- Gift of the Givers: 0800 786 911 (giftofthegivers.org)
Animal Emergencies
- SPCA (Animal Emergencies): 011 907 3590
- NSRI (Beach Rescue): 082 911
- SANParks Emergency (National Parks Rescue): 013 735 0197
- Snake Rescue Hotline: 072 809 5806
Poison Control and Substance Abuse Support
- Poison Information Centre: 0861 555 777
Traffic and Roadside Assistance
- AA Roadside Assistance: 0861 000 234
- RTMC (Road Traffic Management Corporation): 0861 400 800
Gender and Community Support Hotlines
- Tears Foundation (Gender-Based Violence Support): 010 590 5920
- LGBTQ+ Support Hotline: 021 422 0255
Homeless Shelters and Support
- The Haven Night Shelter (Western Cape): 021 425 4700
- MES (Gauteng and Western Cape Homeless Support): 011 725 6531
- Durban North Shelter: 031 312 3147
Additional Community and Humanitarian Support
- Local Community Watch Groups: Contact your local neighbourhood watch
- Helplines for the Elderly (Age-in-Action): 0800 333 231
- Missing Persons Hotline (Missing Children SA): 072 647 7464
- Human Trafficking Hotline (A21 South Africa): 0800 222 777
Emergency Apps and Community Groups
- Namola (Mobile Safety App): namola.com – Real-time emergency assistance
- mySOS (Emergency App): mysos.co.za – GPS-linked support for medical, security, and roadside emergencies
- Community Policing Forums (CPFs): Check your local CPF group on Facebook for area-specific safety updates
When You Need Crowdfunding Support
In addition to emergency services, sometimes a crisis requires financial assistance for medical bills, disaster relief, or emotional support resources. BackaBuddy offers a trusted crowdfunding platform where you can create a campaign to raise funds quickly and safely from your community. Whether you’re seeking help or want to contribute to someone in need, crowdfunding can make a meaningful difference.
Essential Tips:
- Save these numbers on your phone under ‘Emergency Contacts.’
- Share this list with family and friends to ensure everyone is prepared.
- If you’re unsure who to call, dial 112 from any mobile phone for immediate assistance.
