Frequently Asked Questions
What is iER?
iER is a dedicated emergency response and disaster management network designed to respond to the emergency needs of all South Africans. iER’s managed, 24-hour call centre provides direct access to a rapid response support network of highly trained personnel.
Once the iER call centre has determined the nature of the emergency and the response required, it will dispatch the appropriate emergency unit needed – 24 hours a day.
Alerts can be sent via the iER App, which is linked directly to the iER call centre. The mobile application is functional on Android, HarmonyOS and iOS mobile devices.
iER is NOT available on:
- Microsoft
- Blackberry
- Android 5 or earlier versions
- iOS 13 or earlier versions
How do I send out an alert?
- Mobile internet connection (data) and location are required to send alerts for emergency assistance.
- When faced with an emergency, click on the relevant emergency alert button. Once an alert has been triggered, the app will immediately alert the iER control centre of the user’s GPS location and generate a case number.
- The iER call centre will contact the user to confirm all incident details and assist with notifying the relevant emergency response services.
- If a user does not respond, the iER call centre will contact the user’s emergency contacts listed on their profile.
- Once emergency support services have been notified and dispatched, an in-app message with a reference number will be sent to the user. The in-app chat function allows users to send voice notes, text messages, and images.
- Alternatively, you can call the iER call centre on 0861 10 60 80, where an agent will assist in connecting you with the necessary service provider.
Why is the iER APP asking for so much information?
At iER, our top priority is to provide help in the fastest time possible. To do this, all relevant information about the user must be available.
Medical information such as your blood type, allergies, and chronic conditions should be input into the app as soon as possible. Without such information, effective assistance may not be possible. Therefore, providing as much detail as possible can significantly improve our service.
Why does the iER APP need so many rights?
The iER app requires access to specific phone features such as the camera and GPS. Each feature is explained below.
- Camera: To capture and send images in the in-app message function.
- Emergency Contacts: Emergency contacts can be saved in-app for the iER call centre agent should they not be able to reach you.
- Location: Location is determined through triangulation or GPS to pinpoint the user’s location when an alert is sent to the iER call centre.
- Microphone/Phone: The application needs to be able to call on your behalf should you not be able to. (When the feature is activated)
- Storage: The application requires the capability to store and archive data, as well as cache data, such as icons, so that users can view their history.
- Identity: For location and map data.
Who do you share information with?
The iER call centre personnel will only access your information when an alert is submitted. They will then provide the information to emergency response personnel or security to ensure you receive the appropriate help as soon as possible.
What is the Silent alert for?
The iER App has a silent alert function, allowing users to call for help without alerting the perpetrator. Activate the silent alert to ask for help discreetly; emergency services will be sent directly to your location.
Can I use the iER APP if I am not on scene?
Yes. Users can report an incident at another location by entering the applicable details in the in-app messaging feature.
The more information we have, the easier it is to notify the appropriate support services. If time does not permit, the correct location and on-scene contact details can be given to our Response Agent when they contact you.
A call centre agent will always ask for an on-scene contact number for the services that we notify. This is to confirm whether the emergency is still active or if the service provider needs additional information.
What is the iER's vision?
Our vision is to create safer communities nationwide. We aim to achieve this by being the country’s leading and dedicated emergency response and disaster management service.
What is the iER's mission?
Our mission is to improve the efficiency of emergency management for all South Africans. We have integrated emergency response resources to coordinate a management plan that minimises, prepares for, and prevents life-threatening medical and non-medical emergencies.
Is the iER APP free?
Are you an interested service provider?
Should you wish to join the iER Provider Network, please get in touch with us on 0861 10 60 80. Alternatively, you can email us at network@ier.co.za. Please allow one working day for a response to your request.
Other queries?
For any queries, please email us at info@ier.co.za for assistance. Please allow one working day for a response to email queries. Alternatively, please get in touch with us on 0861 10 60 80.