I was talking to my mom the other day and she mentioned going shopping by herself. All of a sudden, I had a vision of an accident that left her unconscious without information for a 1st responder that would assist in contacting my dad, my brother or myself. I know I may sound like an alarmist but the fact is my parents are octogenarians and having a challenging time navigating independently these days. Besides, they do not have to cause an accident, just become unconscious because of one. Accidents happen all the time.
Before I was married, I never really thought about accidents. However, after I was married and especially after I became a mother, I started to think about it. I remember mountain biking by myself and realizing I had no ID on my person, and, if I became unconscious, there was no information to assist anyone in locating my husband or identifying myself. Therefore, I started carrying my husband’s business card in my wallet, in my car, and in the pouch on my bike. However, after thinking of my parents navigating the world on their own, I decided to make an emergency contact card. It simply states In Case of Emergency CALL, listing the other’s spouse, my brother and myself. In fact, I also made one for my husband and myself. A friend suggested that I laminate them, which I did – great idea! I may be overreacting but really, it couldn’t hurt and it gives me a sense of comfort.
I know the next of kin are eventually contacted but I would rather facilitate the process. Have you thought about how people are contacted during emergency situations? What have you done to aid the process?