How to add "ICE" to your Mobile Phone

Adding ICE ("In Case of Emergency") to your phone is a clever means by which emergency personnel can locate your next of kin when something goes wrong. This simple idea was developed by a British paramedic, Bob Brotchie, who recognized the need for speed when emergency personnel are trying to locate next of kin during disaster situations.  Here is the simple way to keep your loved ones informed.

1. Open your mobile phone's address book

2. Program ICE - "In Case of Emergency" - with the name of your emergency contact into your contacts.

For example: 

• -ICE Dave
• -ICE Wife
• -ICE Mrs Wiggins

3. Let other family members and friends know. 

Tell family members that you have done this and encourage them to do the same. 

Additional Tips:

• Put a dash - in front of the letters ICE so it will appear at the top of your phone list. Put the name of the person after the letters ICE.
• Why do emergency personnel need to contact next of kin? The principal reason can be to seek permission to treat you when injured. A delay in this can result in a much worsened condition. ICE aims to speed this up to ensure rapid responses. Furthermore, emergency personnel can ask questions about allergies, general health, previous experiences etc., all information that might help save your limb or life.
• Also, always keep your phone well topped up battery power. Emergency services can't look in your phone book if you have no juice in your battery!
• As this is on your mobile phone, try your best to always keep your phone on your person, and in an accessible area in your pocket or bag, so that the paramedics can reach it with ease.