VIAL OF LIFE PROGRAM

South Central Wood County, WI                  (715) 423-7360

What:     "VIAL OF LIFE" is an easily located source of emergency medical information for rescue squads, ambulances, police officers, fire departments and medical personnel, IF THEIR SERVICES ARE EVER NEEDED.  THERE IS NO COST FOR THE VIAL OF LIFE.

For Whom:    Individuals over 60 years of age (especially those living alone), people to whom English is a second language, and people with special health problems.

By Whom:    Your Wood County American Red Cross will provide the vial and identifying stickers for homes of South and Central Wood County citizens requesting the service.

Where:    In your refrigerator, under the upper right hand shelf, in a plastic sleeve. It is important that everyone place the sleeve in the same location so it can be easily found. The Velcro coin located on the back of the sleeve will help you secure the sleeve in your refrigerator. Peel the backing off the identifying sticker and attach to the top center of your refrigerator door. Smooth it on securely.  Do not leave any air bubbles.  The sticker will stay neat and clean for years.  It can be removed at a later date, if necessary.  Every house has a refrigerator; it provides a secure universal place to locate necessary emergency information.

Contents:    Be sure that all blanks on the form are filled in.  Indicate on the form what medications you're taking. Type or print so emergency medical personnel can help you quickly in a time of need.  Your American Red Cross will maintain a copy of your name, address and telephone number ONLY.  A volunteer will call once a year to remind you to update any changes in your medical information. They will properly identify themselves.

Cost:    FREE.  This service is funded by River Cities Bank.  Pay no one - tip no one.

Why:    If a person needs emergency help, (dial 911) and cannot tell what is wrong, it's difficult for the rescue squad, ambulance, police or friends and neighbors to give necessary immediate help.  Knowing where this emergency information is helps them to help you.

One More Thing:    Are your house numbers visible from the road?  Seen easily day or night?  If not - please take steps to make them visible.  You know where you live but fire fighters; rescue squad drivers or police officers may not.  So help can reach you quickly please display house numbers where they can be seen all year round.  Thank you!