The City of Evanston today is launching a program provide key medical information to paramedics even if a person is unconscious when the rescue crew arrives at their home.
The “File of L.I.F.E.” — or “Lifesaving Information for Emergencies” — is a plastic pouch with a bright red sticker. It contains an information sheet for residents to indicate their medical history, prescriptions, allergies and emergency contacts.
This pouch is placed inside the individual’s freezer where emergency response personnel have been trained to look when responding to medical emergencies.
Other important information including a power of attorney, living will and do not resucitate documentation can be placed in the pouch as well.
The free program is designed to educate residents — especially seniors and the disabled — about the importance of maintaining their own up-to-date medication and allergy lists — and taking steps to make them easily accessible in case of an emergency.
A program launch event will be held this afternoon at 1 p.m. at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, 1655 Foster St.
The free “File of L.I.F.E.” pouches can be picked up at the Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave. or any of Evanston’s five fire stations. The nationally-recognized program is sponsored by the Evanston Police & Fire Foundation.