Why is an ICE Card and ICE File important?
If you have been involved in a major accident you may have suffered significant trauma and be unable to communicate. This information could be the difference between life and death especially during the ‘golden hour’.
You may have added ICE contacts to your phone, but this often proves difficult for first responders as the phone may be locked or broken or the battery may be flat and different phones work differently, wasting precious time. You may carry ‘something’ in your purse or wallet, but this may not be easily recognisable.
If you have an ICE Card, first responders can access this information from your purse or wallet which is generally the first place they go to identify you. You should store your ICE Card next to your primary ID.
If you have an ICE File, your loved ones will have access to the most important information at a time when they need it most.
What information is included in my ICE Card?
The ICE Card contains information about your next of kin, health conditions, allergies, and medications.
What information is included in my ICE File?
Your ICE File provides a ‘mini’ version of a full membership and includes the most important information (from All About Me, My Family, My Estate My Digital Footprint My Health Care, My Insurance, and My Wishes) that your loved ones would need to know in the event you cannot communicate.
How do I get my ICE Card and / or ICE File?
Once you have completed your information, you can print your ICE Card and ICE File at home. When printed, you should trim your ICE Card to size and place it in your wallet or purse next to your Primary ID. You may also print extra copies which you may choose to store in other locations such as your glove box or mobile phone case.
Your ICE File should be printed too, and you should let your loved ones know what it is and where they can find it.
There is not enough space on my ICE File, what can I do?
You can always attach extra pages to your ICE File. Alternatively, you can set up a TellThem4Me® membership.
Preparing for the inevitable is something we should all do, but we often leave it until it is too late. Memberships are affordable and provide 24/7 access to a secure online digital platform where members and Nominees can view important information at a time you cannot communicate, and when it is needed the most.