A campaign encouraging people to enter a emergency contact number in their
mobile phone’s memory under the heading “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) is
spreading rapidly as a particular consequence of terrorist attacks [Hat
Tip: Deborah J. Martell]. But it’s a good idea for other reasons, too.
Originally established as a nation wide campaign in the UK, “ICE” allows
paramedics or police to be able to quickly contact a designated relative or
next of kin in an emergency situation. The idea is the brainchild of East
Anglian Ambulance Service Paramedic Bob Brotchie and was launched in May of
this year. Bob has been a paramedic for 13 years, and said:
“I was reflecting on some of the calls I’ve attended at the roadside
where I had to look through the mobile phone contacts struggling for
information on a shocked or injured person.”
Almost everyone carries a mobile phone now, and with ‘ICE’ we’d know
immediately who to contact and what number to ring. The person may
even know their medical history.”
By adopting the ICE advice, your mobile phone will help the rescue services
quickly contact a relative or friend – which could be vital in a life or
death situation. It only takes a few seconds to do, and could easily help
save your life. Simply select a new contact in your phone book, enter “ICE”
and enter the number of the person you wish to be contacted in case of an
emergency. For more than one contact name, use ICE1; ICE2, ICE3, etc.
If you have teens driving, spouses or parents that travel, loved ones with
medical conditions, urge them to program their cell phones with an ICE
number. Though it may never be used; it’s a common sense safety thing!