Emergency Numbers

Dialling 911

Notes for South African Refugees

• Federal Numbers: The 911 number is the primary contact for all emergencies nationwide, connecting callers to local police, fire, and medical services. The Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) is a specialized federal resource for poisoning incidents, offering guidance in multiple languages, which can benefit Afrikaans- or English-speaking refugees.
• State Numbers: State health department emergency lines provide additional support for health-specific crises, such as disease outbreaks or disaster response. These numbers often connect to local EMS or offer advice, complementing 911.
• RMA Coverage: South African refugees eligible for Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) can use these numbers without out-of-pocket costs for emergency care, including ambulance services and ER visits, for up to 12 months from arrival.
• Language Support: Many state hotlines and 911 services offer multilingual support or can dispatch interpreters, aiding Afrikaans-speaking refugees. English-speaking refugees may find navigation easier but should clarify U.S. emergency protocols.
• Cultural Adjustment: South Africans accustomed to South Africa’s 10111 (police) or 112 (ambulance) emergency numbers should note that 911 is the sole U.S. equivalent, covering all services. Public hospitals like Chris Hani Baragwanath may differ from U.S. ERs in wait times and billing practices.
• Access: Save these numbers in phones or keep a printed copy. For rural areas, state-specific toll-free numbers ensure coverage where 911 reception is weak.

Tips for Use

• Dial 911 First: Use for life-threatening situations (e.g., chest pain, severe bleeding). Provide your location and symptoms clearly.
• Poison Control: Call 1-800-222-1222 for accidental ingestions (e.g., children swallowing medication), even if unsure of severity.
• State Hotlines: Use state numbers for non-emergency health advice or to report public health concerns (e.g., food poisoning).
• RMA Support: Contact resettlement agencies www.acf.hhs.gov/orr to confirm RMA eligibility and coverage details for emergency care.
• Follow-Up: After emergency care, visit a primary care provider or FQHC findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov for ongoing treatment, covered by RMA or Medicaid.

Conclusion