Fire - Ask a Firefighter Columns

Glendale Republic
02-23-09

Question: What information is best to have ready to assist firefighters after 9-11 is called for medical emergencies?

Answer: Here in Glendale and in the Valley, when 911 is called firefighters will arrive in between 4-6 minutes. In emergencies, time is of the essence. Many times the person we respond to is disoriented or even unconscious by the time we arrive. Firefighters will always adapt and overcome any obstacles in emergency situations but taking a few minutes to gather your information now, before such emergencies, will help your firefighters quickly asses and treat your medical condition if you ever have to call 911 in the future for a medical incident. Having this information ready will help firefighters with patient treatment:

• Contact information
• Doctors Names & Numbers
• Complete Medical History
• List of Allergies
• Recent Photo
• Healthcare Power of Attorney
• Orange DNR Form (Place on Refrigerator)

This information can be kept in a designated place in your home. The most common place has been on the bedroom dresser or on the refrigerator. Wherever you decide to be your designated place, be sure to share this information with your family members. The Glendale Fire Department thanks you for your continued support.