09/03/2026
☎️ Calling an Ambulance – What You Should Know
It seems simple: Dial 087 711 0001, give your address and wait for the ambulance. But calling for an ambulance can be a stressful experience, especially if someone you know is injured.
Let's hope you never have to dial those digits. But if you do, remember these simple things:
🗣 Try to speak clearly
Remember the operator can't see the situation. They are relying solely on what you tell them. Speaking clearly and explaining the situation will help them greatly. Try to give clear and concise answers to the questions they ask.
📍 Know the location
Calls from landlines or mobile phones cannot always be pinpointed. Try to give the exact location using landmarks and local knowledge if you can.
➡️ If possible, always send someone outside to flag down and meet the ambulance.
❓ Answer questions as best you can
The operator will ask you for your telephone number so that if the line is disconnected they can call you back. They will also ask for your address and the nature of the emergency.
They may ask questions such as:
• “Are they responsive?”
• “Are they breathing?”
It’s important that you answer as best as you can. If you don't know the answer, then say so. Answering these questions will NOT delay the ambulance.
⏳ Be patient
Unlike the movies, emergency calls can take time. Please be patient with the operator — they are trying their best to help you.
The questions they ask are important as they help the operator assess the severity of the call and send the correct level of emergency care.
🩺 Follow the instructions
The operator is trained to give basic life-saving instructions over the phone (such as helping someone who is unresponsive and not breathing). Even if you haven't had first aid training, you can still follow these instructions to help.
Remember: Doing something is always better than doing nothing.
❤️ Stay with the person
Always stay with the patient in case their condition changes. If their condition worsens, call the Emergency Operations Centre again and update the operator.
🧠 Knowledge saves lives
Knowing basic first aid can save lives. Sometimes it may take time for ambulances to reach critically ill patients due to traffic or weather conditions. In those moments, basic lifesaving knowledge can make all the difference.
🚑 Bester Emergency Medical Service
A licensed and accredited private emergency medical service, assisting with medical and trauma emergencies.
Bringing Care, Hope & Excellence
☎️ Bester EMS Emergency Operations Centre
087 711 0001
