Emergency Response
When every second counts, we’re already there
031 941 4070
Medical First Response
High-Angle Rope Rescue
Water Rescue
K9 Search & Rescue
Event Medical Cover
Trauma Counselling
Specialised Tactical Accident Response Team
Over 250 trained volunteers serving communities across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, 24 hours a day
Since 2020, S.T.A.R.T. Rescue has been a community-driven answer to medical emergencies, rescue operations, and crisis response. Founded by Konrad Jones, a longstanding Netcare911 practitioner, during the darkest days of COVID-19, we’ve grown into a network of dedicated volunteers who treat every callout like it’s our own family in need.
We are one team, with one goal and one passion: We save lives.
What Makes Us Different
We’re not just another emergency service. Every member of S.T.A.R.T. Rescue lives in the communities we serve. That means faster response times, better local knowledge, and responders who genuinely care about their neighbours. From heart attacks in Amanzimtoti to mountain rescues in the Drakensberg, from emergencies in Johannesburg to incidents across Gauteng, we’ve built our reputation one life saved at a time.
Our volunteers are on call 24/7 for any disaster or emergency, regardless of financial status. We never ask if you can pay. We ask what you need.
Services at a Glance
Medical First Response – First aid responders providing initial primary health care in lifesaving techniques, working alongside in-house medical professionals such as paramedics, nurses, and doctors
High-Angle Rope Rescue – Specialists in rescuing any form of life from high or difficult-to-reach locations, such as cliffs, buildings, or other elevated structures
Water Rescue – Specifically trained to respond to emergencies in or around bodies of water, equipped with specialized gear for water rescues and medical support in aquatic environments
K9 Search & Rescue – Highly trained search and rescue dogs and their handlers who locate and retrieve individuals in various terrains, working under the K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa
Aviation Support – Aerial support for search and rescue operations using helicopters and drones to locate and evacuate individuals in remote locations
Equine Team – Skilled riders providing search and rescue support using horses in terrains inaccessible by vehicle
Event Medical Cover – All-in-one service for public or private events with professional standby medical teams
Trauma Counselling – Bereavement support, trauma counselling in emergencies, and in-house mental health support for both victims and our members
Real Stories From Real People
“I was having a heart attack at 2am. S.T.A.R.T. arrived before I could finish the call to my wife. The paramedic who treated me lives three streets over. He knew exactly where to find me, and his calm professionalism kept me from panicking. I’m here today because of these incredible people.”
“The professionalism is what strikes you first, but it’s the compassion that stays with you. These aren’t corporate responders reading from a script. They’re your neighbours, and they care deeply about getting it right every single time.”
“Response time was under ten minutes. The team arrived with everything they needed, treated my father with such kindness, and coordinated perfectly with the ambulance service. This is what community looks like when it works.”
How We’re Funded
S.T.A.R.T. Rescue operates as a registered Non-Profit Organisation (NPO 96487) and Public Benefit Organisation (PBO 930022231). We don’t charge for emergency callouts. Every rand donated goes directly into supporting our operations. Our volunteers give their time freely because they believe in serving their communities.
Tax-Deductible Donations: We’re registered under Section 18A of the Income Tax Act, which means your contribution qualifies for tax deductions. Email info@startrescue.co.za for your certificate.
We believe in making a positive impact in our community and are committed to saving lives. Your support and contributions are crucial to our mission.