Emergency medical teams work in unpredictable environments, often arriving at road crashes, serious injuries, medical emergencies and other situations where immediate care is needed.

Paramedics do much more than transport patients. They assess conditions, provide emergency treatment and make decisions about the level of care a person needs before reaching hospital.

National Emergency Medical Services Day recognises the skills and dedication required to provide this care under pressure.

Knowing when to call for emergency assistance is important too. For serious medical emergencies in South Africa, call 10177 or 112 from a mobile phone.