Where Should You Keep Emergency Information?

You've likely been asked once or twice to provide emergency contact information, whether for a job, an event or school.

But where would a paramedic or an emergency room nurse learn who they should contact to let know you've been injured or are sick? If you couldn't speak, how would they know if you're having an allergic reaction?

There are a number of places and tools you should consider using to keep emergency information handy for first responders or hospital staff.

Your Cellphone

Most modern cellphones have the option to store emergency information as well as the option to access it from the lock screen.

Depending on what cellphone you have, the process of adding this information and setting accessibility rules is going to be different. However, you will most likely be able to find these options in your settings menu.

Additionally, if you are comfortable with adding this information to your locked screen, you can write down the details of your emergency contact as well as things like any serious allergies or conditions and take a picture with your phone. You can then set this picture as your lock screen image. It's important to know with this option that anyone with your cellphone would then be able to access that information without having to unlock your phone.

While your cellphone can be a great place to store emergency information, you should consider alternative options since emergency responders may have a hard time finding it.

Medical Bracelets and Necklaces

Medical ID jewelry typically comes as a necklace or bracelet. These items are fashionable trinkets that typically have important medical information inscribed on them.

Oftentimes, the amount of information can fit on a piece of medical ID jewelry is limited, so you should prioritize what you include if necessary.

If you are interested in storing important emergency information on a bracelet or necklace, it's important you consult your doctor about what you should include.

Some common information includes medical conditions, medications, blood type and your emergency contact.

Your Wallet

Another way you might consider keeping your emergency information on you at all times is keeping it in your wallet. This can be as personalized or simple as you like, including a piece of paper or a plastic card listing your medical information and emergency contact details.

Similar to your cellphone, your wallet might be difficult for emergency responders to find. They may also not think to look there while transporting you to the hospital.

What information should you share?

As mentioned above, you should always consult your primary care provider to determine what important information you should keep available in the event of an emergency.

Some important personal information you should discuss having available includes:

• Your full name
• Your birthdate
• Chronic medical conditions
• List of current medications
• Allergies, including materials paramedics might use like latex
• Emergency contact information

When you choose an emergency contact, make sure the person you choose is aware that they're in your emergency contact list. This ensures they're aware they may be contacted if you are injured or experience a serious illness.

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