Western Cape Emergency Centres and EMS: Festive season activity report highlights high demand

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness released statistics for the festive season period (15 December 2024 – 15 January 2025), highlighting the increased demand for services at Emergency Centres (ECs) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) across the province.

Over the festive season, EMS responded to 69,249 calls, including 23,383 life-threatening incidents and 45,866 urgent but less critical cases. These numbers underscore the critical role EMS plays in responding to emergencies during one of the busiest times of the year.

EMS Director Craig Wylie said, “The festive season places extraordinary pressure on our EMS teams, and this year was no different. Our paramedics worked around the clock to provide care and transport to those in need. We thank the public for their patience and cooperation during this high-demand period.”

Emergency Centres across the province also saw significant activity, with 120,868 total cases managed during this period. This included:

• 29,785 trauma cases
• 87,030 non-trauma cases

Forensic Pathology Services confirmed 89 deaths due to motor vehicle accidents during this period. Each of these fatalities represents a profound loss to families and communities. The department extends its deepest condolences to all those affected and urges the public to prioritise road safety to prevent further tragedies.

Dr Saadiq Kariem, Chief of Operations at the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, commented on the intense demand placed on ECs. “These numbers highlight the pressure our Emergency Centres face every festive season. Trauma cases, many of which are preventable, account for a significant portion of these visits. We urge the public to take every precaution to avoid unnecessary emergencies, especially during high-demand periods.”

The department urges everyone to remain vigilant and practise safety throughout the year to prevent unnecessary emergencies. By making thoughtful and informed choices, we can reduce the burden on healthcare systems and ensure that critical resources are available for those who need them most. Together, we can protect lives and support our healthcare workers.

The department reminds the public to continue making responsible healthcare choices to ease the pressure on ECs and EMS. These include:

• Use ECs for severe and life-threatening conditions only. Minor illnesses and injuries should be managed by local clinics or general practitioners.
• Avoid preventable trauma. Practise road safety, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and take measures to prevent accidents at home.
• Support healthcare workers. Respect the efforts of healthcare staff who work tirelessly under immense pressure to provide care.

Western Cape Minister for Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, said, “This year, the demand on our system was significant, yet our health heroes rose to the occasion with unwavering commitment and compassion. Their tireless efforts ensured that those most in need of care were supported promptly and effectively, often under immense pressure. We extend our deepest gratitude to all healthcare and emergency care workers, including EMS teams, EC staff, and support teams, who went above and beyond during this busy period. Your commitment and resilience ensure that patients receive the care they need.”

 In case of emergencies, please keep the following numbers handy:

• Police Flying Squad: 10111
• Ambulance Services: 10177
• Cell Phone Emergency: 112
• City of Cape Town General Emergency: 107 (from a landline) or 021 480 7700
• Disaster Risk Management Centre: 080 911 4357 (HELP)
• Poisons Information Helpline of the Western Cape: 0861 555 777
• Childline: 116
• Lifeline: 021 461 1113
• Wilderness Search and Rescue: 021 937 0300