August is MedicAlert Awareness Month. Medical professionals and first responders advise that anyone with an increased risk of a medical emergency have their personal health and medical history information readily available in their homes during an emergency. This is important for anyone with special health conditions or needs and most seniors.
When first responders are called out to medical emergencies at home, they may only have a few minutes to properly assess the situation, treat the patient and begin transporting them to a hospital. To make the most of the precious life-saving minutes, the Richardson Fire Department has a program for City residents who may have medical conditions or needs called the “File of Life Program.” The “file” contains:
- One plastic, red file sleeve
- A registration card
- A medical information form
The registration card asks for basic information such as the patient’s name, address, emergency contact and a very brief checklist of any medical conditions. Once it is returned to the Richardson Fire Department, first responders are alerted that the patient has a “file” and are informed of any medical conditions.
The registration can be returned to any Fire Station or City building. It can also be mailed to the Richardson Fire Department, Fire Marshal’s Office at 300 N. Greenville Ave., Richardson, TX 75081. You can also request a form by e-mailing FMO@cor.gov.
The form is to be kept in its red, plastic sleeve with a magnetic strip and placed on the refrigerator door in a very visible area, so that emergency responders know where to look when entering the home. The form includes everything on the registration card, but adds the preferred physician, hospital, insurance information, additional medical condition information, known allergies and important medical history details. This information should be updated regularly to provide accurate information.
Where to Get File of Life Packet
Packets are available at all Richardson Fire Stations. You can also call the Richardson Fire Marshal’s Office at 972-744-5750. Visit
www.cor.net/FileofLife for more information.
State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry
Another free registry that provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with additional information is the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) program. People who require medical assistance during an emergency, are medically fragile, have limited mobility, or require personal care assistance are encouraged to register online by visiting stear.tdem.texas.gov, calling 2-1-1, or using your video telephone relay option of choice to contact 2-1-1 at 877-541-7905.
