ICE - In Case of Emergency

Apparently 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.

How does it work? Simply use your mobile’s contact list/phone book to store the name and number(s) of someone who should be contacted if you have an emergency – but add the letters ICE in front of their name. Emergency services should then be able to look for your ICE contact if you’re involved in an accident and have your mobile phone with you. This straight forward idea was developed by the East Anglian Ambulance Trust and is endorsed by Falklands war veteran Simon Weston plus senior police officers, ambulance services, fire chiefs and hospitals across the world.

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. It's recommended that you enter daytime and evening numbers where this is possible. 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 mother, your father 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.

Taking this concept a step further ICE Contact.com (founders?) are offering to log your details into their 24/7 database/call center and make the important calls for you. Alternatively, IdTagIt.Co.Uk are offering to create you a laminated ICE card that you'd slip into your wallet or rucksak.