Police emergency number South Africa – what to know
When to request police emergency help in South Africa, what information to give and how to protect yourself while responders are coming.
Use police emergency help when there is immediate danger
A police emergency call is for an immediate threat to people or property, a crime in progress, a dangerous scene or urgent assistance where police response is needed. Use the directory below for the current route and state the location before giving a long explanation.
Information that speeds the response
- 10177Emergency Medical Services
- 10111South African Police Service
- 112Universal Emergency (mobile)
- 0800 029 999SADAG Mental Health Crisis Line
- 0861 554 911Poisons Information Helpline
- Exact address, intersection, landmark or direction of travel.
- What is happening now and whether a weapon, fire or injury is involved.
- Descriptions of people, vehicles or direction of escape only if it is safe to observe.
- Your callback number and a safe place to meet responders.
Stay safer while waiting
- Move to a locked or safer place if you can do so without increasing danger.
- Do not confront a violent person or follow a fleeing suspect.
- Preserve evidence and avoid touching the scene when it is safe to leave it alone.
- Call for medical help as well when someone is injured or not breathing normally.
Immediate danger is not a form to complete later
Common questions
- What is the police emergency number in South Africa?
- Use the current police number shown in the emergency directory on this page. Give the location first and keep your phone available for follow-up.
- Can I use the police route for a medical emergency?
- Request medical emergency help for a health crisis. If the scene is unsafe or police assistance is also needed, tell the emergency operator what is happening.
Sources
- Road to Health book: health-service contacts and child health guidanceNational Department of Health, South Africa
- Basic life support and resuscitation guidelinesResuscitation Council of Southern Africa
Last reviewed 26 August 2026.