Vial of Life Program

WHAT IT IS: VIAL OF LIFE is an easily located source of emergency medical information for rescue squads, ambulances, police, fire department and medical personnel, IF THEIR SERVICES ARE EVER NEEDED.

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: In cooperation with local hospitals, county sheriffs’, police and fire departments, and your American Red Cross, the volunteers will provide the vial and identifying magnets for the homes of these citizens requesting the service.

WHERE TO In your refrigerator, attached to the right-hand wall just underneath

PLACE VIAL: the top shelf. It is important that everyone attaché the vial in the same location so it can easily be found. Place the new Vial of Life magnet to the top center of your refrigerator door. Every house has a refrigerator; it provides a secure universal place to locate necessary emergency information.

CONTENT: Be sure that all blanks are filled in. Indicate on the form WHERE your medication is kept, NOT WHAT medication you’re taking. Clearly print so someone can quickly help you in 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 contributions.

WHY: If a person needs emergency help…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.

REMEMBER: The Vial of Life program is absolutely FREE.