This is the wrong number to call.

What number does one phone in case of an emergency? Certainly not 911 if you live in South Africa… Still, “911” was the answer given by a group of of grade 4, 5 and 6 learners when asked this question. The learners, who attend the West Coast Christian School, now know better.

The question that floored the children was asked by NSRI Station 18 volunteer Marnette Meyer during a talk on safe swimming on Friday in Melkbosstrand.

“What’s the number you dial in case of an emergency she asked.
“911” piped up a multitude of voices.
“That’s the number in America,” Meyer corrected the children.
“The number here is 10177.”

Meyer drew large imaginary numbers in the air, to let the information sink in. If you phone 10177 you will be able to access help in the case of a medical emergency and can be called in conjunction with both the fire and police department.