Thu March 11, 2010 11:25 am

FIRE SAFETY AND OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

Township Office Hours
Mon-Thur: 8:00am to 4:00pm
Friday: 8:00 AM to Noon
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
(269) 968-8549

File of Life

Pennfield township fire department introduces “File of Life” program:

More than 90% of medical emergency calls are treated without knowledge of the patient’s medical history. The File of Life card enables emergency personnel to obtain a quick and accurate medical history when a patient is unable to offer one. The card also eliminates the risk of a patient forgetting to mention something important.

The card, which is kept in a red plastic pocket labeled FILE OF LIFE, lists the patient name, emergency medical contact, insurance policy, social security number, health problems, medications, dosages, allergies, recent surgery, religion, and a health care proxy. The entire pocket is held with a magnet to the outside of the refrigerator. An additional smaller card can be filled out and carried in a purse or wallet.

By having this information posted in the home or carrying it on your person, emergency medical personnel can make a timely assessment of the patient prior to treatment in the event of a medical emergency. Treatment won’t be delayed for fear of administering a drug that will interfere with current medications or worsen an existing condition.

If you have a medical condition, you are encouraged to complete a FILE OF LIFE card from the PTFD. Contact the department for more information.

Benefits to emergency personnel:

Faster help for citizens in emergencies
Instantly know medical history of patient
Corrective treatment can begin at once

Benefits to hospital emergency staff:

On arrival, data is immediately available to medical staff
No wasted time getting information from a confused patient

Benefits to each individual:

Peace of mind knowing they will have prompt and quality care
Assurance that proper person will be notified quickly