Camping in South Africa offers an incredible way to experience the country’s stunning natural landscapes, from its rugged mountains to its pristine beaches and expansive game reserves. However, being prepared for emergencies is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s a guide to the essential emergency numbers you need to keep handy while camping in South Africa.

General Emergency Services

1. National Emergency Number: 112

Purpose: This is the universal emergency number in South Africa, accessible from any cell phone, even without airtime.
Services Covered: Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, and Rescue services.
How It Works: Dial 112 from any cell phone, and the call will be routed to the appropriate emergency service based on your location.

2. Ambulance and Medical Services: 10177

Purpose: Direct line for emergency medical services and ambulances.
Services Covered: Medical emergencies, ambulance dispatch, and paramedic services.
How It Works: Dial 10177 to connect directly to the emergency medical services call centre.

Police Services

3. South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111

Purpose: To report crimes, suspicious activities, or to request police assistance.
Services Covered: Criminal activities, urgent police assistance, and public safety concerns.
How It Works: Dial 10111 to reach the SAPS call centre, which will dispatch officers to your location if needed.

Fire Services

4. Fire Brigade: 10111

Purpose: To report fires, hazardous materials incidents, and rescue situations.
Services Covered: Firefighting, rescue operations, and hazardous materials incidents.
How It Works: Dial 10111 to reach the fire brigade through the SAPS call centre, ensuring a rapid response to fire-related emergencies.

Specialised Services

5. Sea Rescue: 082 911 (National Sea Rescue Institute – NSRI)

Purpose: To request assistance for sea and coastal emergencies.
Services Covered: Sea rescues, maritime emergencies, and coastal safety.
How It Works: Dial 082 911 for immediate assistance from the NSRI for any sea-related emergencies.

6. Mountain Rescue: 021 937 0300 (Western Cape)

Purpose: To request assistance for mountain or hiking emergencies.
Services Covered: Mountain rescues, lost hikers, and climbing accidents.
How It Works: Dial 021 937 0300 to reach the Western Cape’s mountain rescue services.

Wildlife and Park Emergencies

7. SANParks Emergency Numbers:

Kruger National Park: 013 735 4000
Table Mountain National Park: 0861 106 417
Purpose: To report emergencies within South Africa’s national parks.
Services Covered: Wildlife incidents, medical emergencies, and other urgent issues within the parks.
How It Works: Dial the relevant number for the specific national park you are visiting to get assistance.

Poison Control

8. Poisons Information Helpline: 0861 555 777

Purpose: To seek advice and assistance in case of poisoning.
Services Covered: Poison information, emergency instructions, and guidance on treatment.
How It Works: Dial 0861 555 777 for immediate advice from poison control experts.

Utility Emergencies

9. Eskom Customer Service: 0860 037 566

Purpose: To report power outages or electrical emergencies.
Services Covered: Reporting power outages, electrical faults, and emergencies.
How It Works: Dial 0860 037 566 to report issues and get assistance from Eskom.

10. Water and Sanitation: 0800 200 200

Purpose: To report water supply issues or sanitation emergencies.
Services Covered: Water supply disruptions, leaks, and sanitation problems.
How It Works: Dial 0800 200 200 for assistance from local water and sanitation services.

Roadside Assistance

11. AA South Africa: 0861 000 234

Purpose: To request roadside assistance for vehicle breakdowns.
Services Covered: Towing, battery jump-starts, tyre changes, and fuel delivery.
How It Works: Dial 0861 000 234 to get immediate help from the Automobile Association of South Africa.

Final Thoughts

When camping in South Africa, it’s vital to be prepared for any emergencies that may arise. Keeping these numbers handy can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. Program them into your phone, and keep a printed copy in your camper trailer or tent. By being prepared, you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences that South Africa has to offer.