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Having your medical information up-to-date and readily available in case of an emergency is truly of utmost importance! e other day I was speaking with an OHCC resident whose spouse had been taken to the hospital in an ambulance. ey had called 911 and both the fire truck and paramedics showed up. While the first responders to arrive went to check on the ill person, another fire fighter asked, "Do you have your spouse's medical history?" It so happens that they both had their medical histories written down on the Vial of Life form (which can be found on the SERT Website Vial of Life - Vial of Life Form) and supplemented this information with a list of all significant surgeries (and the year they were performed), all current medications (Rx + over-the counter drugs & supplements) with their dosages and when they are to be taken, allergic reactions (to medication + food + environmental), and the names of all their doctors (primary and specialists). ey also included: • Blood type • Advanced Directive • Health Insurance, (Primary and Secondary - name and policy number) • Pharmacy name, address, and phone number, • Dental insurance, and • Emergency contact(s) ese residents were totally prepared, and they also keep a copy of this information in the glove box in their vehicles and a condensed version in their wallets. Please take this article to heart! Record your medical information, keep it updated and in a handy place (mine is next to the refrigerator). It is also wise to have information about your pet, especially in the event of an evacuation. People with Pets • Get your pet an ID tag and microchip, if possible. • Pack food, water, medicine, and proof of immunization. • Not all shelters will accept pets during an emergency so dial 211 to ask which public shelters accept animals. • If you can keep your pet with you, it will need to be kept in a crate for its protection and certain likely restrictions. In SERT, we frequently talk about "Your Safety is Your Responsibility!" SERT frequently asks how we can help YOU be better prepared for the unexpected. It does not seem like a day goes by without seeing a fire truck or ambulance here in OHCC. What you prepare for today could help save your life tomorrow. Please stay safe! 6 | OHCC LIVING | AUGUST 2023 | By Tom Porter, President Your Medical Records