Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do I need a Rescue Facts Emergency Medical Information Strap?
- How is Rescue Facts different from other, similar products?
- How does Rescue Facts work?
- Is the "Parental Consent" form important?
- Can I use Rescue Facts on items other than seatbelts?
Why do I need a Rescue Facts Emergency Medical Information Strap?
During a medical emergency, there is oten a high degree of stress and chaos. If you are ever in need of emergency medical care, those trying to help need to find out as much about you as possible as quickly as possible. Attempting to identify a person and piece together his or her medical history can be time consuming, frustrating, and dangerous. By compiling accurate information in one convenient and conspicuous place, you are ensuring that more precious time can be spent on administering proper life saving treatment.
How is Rescue Facts different from other, similar products?
Medical bracelets and charms can be very costly and are only able to contain a very limited amount of information. At pricing under $10.00, Rescue Facts provides everyone the opportunity to have the security that comes with knowing that those rendering aid will have access to their vital information such as, medical history, preferred hospital, and contact information for their loved ones.
Traffic crashes are often very chaotic and dangerous. Some products allow users to place information inside tubes or other containers for storage in their vehicles and glove boxes. Precious time can be lost searching for these containers. After a crash, airbags can become very unstable and deploy without notice. This creates a known hazard for first responders and glove boxes are often avoided. Additionally, often times, contents of vehicles are lost in debris both inside and outside the vehicle. The seat belt is the only portion of the vehicle specifically designed to withstand such a traumatic event. What better place than the seat belt to ensure that your information is secure and available to emergency personnel?
Another note. Human nature says that no matter how good a product is designed, if it is not user friendly, it is likely not to be used. First responders are human beings. As a police officer and first responder to traffic crashes, I personally developed this design to maximize its ease and likelihood of use.
(Return to the top of the page)
How does Rescue Facts work?
There are two parts to the Rescue Facts product. The first is the nylon, embroidered strap. This is made from durable nylon, similar to outdoor flag and banner material. The medical symbol is either embroidered or silk screened onto the strap. The strap is not actually attached to the seat belt or clothing item, but rather wraps around the item and is secured by Velcro. This allows it to slide freely and avoid damaging the seat belt material or clothing item. Inside the strap is a pocket designed to hold the paper medical information insert card.
The other part is the emergency medical information card. This card is perforated and scored for your convenience. The following steps describe how to use the card.
- Tear off the top portion of the card and either discard it or attach it to the rear window of the vehicle to further alert medical aid providers that you are using the product.
- Fill out the categories listed on the insert card. If additional room is needed, a separate piece of paper can be used. Keep in mind, the more information the better. If you need to use additional paper, simply place it behind the insert.
- Add your photograph. You may do this by cutting out a good candid shot or by having your photo taken by a passport photographer. It is extremely important that the photograph be on the insert card, as care providers will not use the information without verifying the patient's identity.
- Fold the insert along the scored lines and place into the interior strap pocket. Make sure that the "Emergency Information" heading is facing out.
Once the insert has been filled out and placed in interior pocket of the strap, you are free to attach it anywhere you have a need. For instance, on a seat belt, place the center of the strap on the front side of the seat belt so the symbol is exposed on the outside. Next, fold the loop portion of the Velcro around the seat belt. Finally, fold the hook portion of the Velcro over the loop portion. The strap is designed to slide easily up and down the belt, eventually resting at the buckle. (This allows for you to use the product discretely, while at the same time, making it obvious to medical personnel when they go to unfasten the seat belt.)
(Return to the top of the page)
Is the "Parental Consent" form important?
If you are ever involved in a severe traffic crash and unconscious, or worse, it is vital that rescuers have a "consent to treat" form signed for your child or children. Additionally, emergency contact information can be used to locate family members as opposed to worsening the traumatic event by having to place your child in foster care until a family member can be located.
(Return to the top of the page)
Can I use Rescue Facts on items other than seatbelts?
Absolutely! Rescue Facts can be applied to many items. For instance, many times elderly people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's walk away from care providers and can't remember where they live. When law enforcement or other citizens try to help, it is often very time consuming and difficult to determine identity and medical conditions. Attaching a strap to a trouser belt, purse, or suspenders is a great way to conspicuously communicate this information. Other popular uses for the strap include canes and walkers. For this use, the child seat size works best. This size strap fits securely around most walkers and canes and can easily be placed in a manner that catches the attention of those lending a helping hand. Hikers also find good use for Rescue Facts by attaching them to their backpack straps. The sky is the limit with this versatile product.
(Return to the top of the page)
The right choice when medical attention is necessary!
|
