Eight out of ten people aren't carrying information that would help if they were involved in an accident. Storing next-of-kin details in your mobile phone can assist the emergency services if you're unable to tell them who to contact.
ICE - In Case of Emergency
The Safer Craven Community Partnership is promoting an idea initiated by the East Anglian Ambulance Trust and supported by Vodafone. This initiative is simple, costs nothing and could save lives.
How Does It Work?
By simply entering the acronym ICE - for In Case of Emergency - into the mobile's phone book the emergency services will have the name and number of someone who should be contacted in an emergency.
Getting Started
On most mobile phones you simply need to select 'Contacts' and choose 'Add New Contact', then enter the letters 'ICE', followed by the name and telephone number of your next of kin. For example, ICE - David followed by David's telephone number. It is possible to have more than one contact by typing ICE1 David, ICE2 mum etc. and entering their telephone numbers as before.
Make sure you choose a number that's easy to get in touch with. A home number could be useless in an emergency if the person works full time. If possible enter both daytime and evening telephone numbers.
What Should I Do Next?
Make sure the person whose name and number you are giving has agreed to be your 'ICE' partner. You should also make sure your ICE partner has a list of people to contact on your behalf, such as your place of work. In addition, they'll need to know about any medical conditions that could affect your emergency treatment, including allergies or medication.
If you're under 18 your ICE partner should be your parent, guardian or an immediate member of your family authorised to make decisions on your behalf. Friends and other relatives won't be able to make decisions for you if you're admitted to hospital.
Storing an ICE number makes it easier for everyone if you're involved in an accident. It only takes a few seconds, so do it today - please.