112th Precinct Community Council

ICE

In case of Emergency

ICE
By Heidi Harrison Chain

A new idea for your safety has started in London and is now being used here. ICE stands for in case of emergency. If you have a cell phone you can program your electronic phone book – so that the name of your immediate contact is preceded by the word ice. The listing would be : Ice- name , The phone should also include the person’s phone number. You have the name of the person who you would want contacted. The person you select should have some of your information. They should have the name of your doctor. This person should also know if you are taking any medication.
The advantage to listing someone in your cell phone – is that it assists emergency workers being able to contact someone who knows you and your information. The person will have the urgent and compelling information . This costs you nothing. In case of emergency first responders will be able to turn to a victim's cell phone for clues to that person's identity.
If you want to list more than one person you can name ice-1, ice –2
This simple action helps you in an emergency. By programming you loved one- you save time in critical emergencies. Emergency workers do not have to try to determine who to contact to help you. It is on your phone.
The Washington Post had an article about ICE. It indicates in part, that this simple initiative was conceived by a paramedic in Britain and that the idea has gained momentum on both sides of the Atlantic. The idea was conceived by Bob Brotchie , a clinical team teacher for the ambulance service, after years of trying to reach relatives of people he was treating. He began the Ice initiative in April, but it gained momentum after the bombings in London.
Why don’t you go program your phone to this right now? It will only take you a minute or two and you are better protected. Then call your emergency contact and tell them the name of your doctor and other vital information. Let them know that you are listing them in your phone book.

Be Careful! Stay Safe!