Last Updated on July 13, 2025 by Brenda

Listen to this important podcast Emergency Ready

We all hope we’ll never face a medical emergency, but being prepared can make all the difference. What if you’re in an accident, or suddenly unable to speak for yourself? Who will tell first responders your vital medical information?

On a recent episode of Health IQ, we sat down with Tucumcari EMS Captain Bethany Bishop, who shared crucial, often-overlooked settings and tools that can literally speak for you in a crisis. Forget the old “Vial of Life” in the freezer (though that’s still okay!). Captain Bishop revealed what EMS personnel look for first.

1. Your Phone’s Medical ID / Emergency Health Settings (The #1 Lifesaver!)

This is the absolute game-changer. Both Apple (iPhone’s Health App) and Android (via Settings > Emergency Health Settings) phones have a feature that allows you to store critical medical information.

What it includes: Your name, date of birth, blood type, known allergies to medications, regular medications (with dosages!), and, crucially, emergency contacts.

Why it’s vital: As Captain Bishop explained, first responders can access this information without needing your passcode or fingerprint. It pops up directly from your lock screen during an emergency. This immediate access to your medical history helps EMS make informed decisions quickly, potentially saving precious minutes.

Action Step: Pull out your phone RIGHT NOW. Find your “Health” app (iPhone) or go into your “Settings” and search for “Emergency” or “Medical ID” (Android). Fill out everything you can and make sure your emergency contacts are listed and accurate. Captain Bishop even had her fire chief do it in seconds – it’s that easy!

2. Smartwatch Fall Detection & Emergency SOS (Your Wearable Guardian)

Do you wear an Apple Watch or a Samsung Galaxy Watch? You’re likely wearing a powerful emergency tool.

How it works: These watches have advanced sensors that can detect a “significant fall” (not just a stumble). If you fall and don’t respond within a set time, your watch can automatically call 911 and even send your exact GPS coordinates to dispatchers.

Beyond Falls: Many smartwatches also have an Emergency SOS feature (often activated by holding a specific button). This can quickly alert emergency services and your contacts, even if you can’t speak.

Action Step: Check your smartwatch settings for “Fall Detection” and “Emergency SOS” and ensure they’re enabled. It’s a small setting with potentially huge benefits, especially for those living alone or engaging in activities where a fall could go unnoticed.

3. Home Medical Info (Visible & Up-to-Date!)

For those at home, especially if you might not have your phone on you or don’t use smart devices, having accessible medical information is still critical.

Where to put it: Captain Bishop recommends the refrigerator as the number one common spot. The front door area is also good. The key is visibility – don’t hide it!

What to include: A clear, legible (typed is best!) list of all your current medications with dosages, known allergies, medical conditions, and emergency contacts.

Why it helps: Even if you’re able to speak, the stress of an emergency can make it hard to recall every detail. Having a ready-made list ensures EMS gets accurate info quickly, especially if you’re on numerous prescriptions.

Action Step: Create or update a list of your medical information today. Stick it on your fridge with a clear label like “Emergency Medical Info.”

4. For Children in Car Seats: A fantastic tool highlighted was “Roth ID” stickers – bright, reflective labels that attach to car seats, indicating critical child information and even converting into a wristband for transport. If unavailable, even a piece of duct tape with essential info (child’s name, parent contact, medical issues) clearly visible on the side of the car seat is immensely helpful.

Why it matters: In chaotic moments, or when dealing with an unresponsive individual, quick access to this physical information helps EMS make the best decisions for immediate care and coordination.

Action Step: Order a Roth ID Sticker (available at Amazon) or place some bright duct tape on the side of the car seat and write the important information.

Being “Emergency Ready” isn’t about dwelling on worst-case scenarios; it’s about empowerment and peace of mind. Take these simple steps today to ensure you and your loved ones are protected.