When you need emergency assistance, having your medical history and medicine information in one place may save your life!

What is it?

The Vial of Life program is being reintroduced to Haldimand and Norfolk in conjunction with first responders and community partners. The program allows individuals to have their most up-to-date pertinent medical information in their home for paramedics to reference during an emergency. Paramedics can then assess and apply the most appropriate care and drug treatment as quickly as possible, increasing the patient’s chances of a more positive outcome In an emergency, time is of the essence. If you are unable to communicate with this Vial Program, the first paramedics can gather vital medical information that could potentially save your life.

The local hospitals have agreed this would be a beneficial program.

Similar programs are available through fire and police departments and professional associations in Canada, the United States and other countries around the world.

How does it work?

The program is easy to follow:

Vial of Life program steps.
Step # Step Description
Complete the Emergency Information Vial form with your family or healthcare provider (ie. pharmacist, doctor, homecare) A clear plastic vial with a white easy snap cap is marked with a fluorescent orange label with the three universal symbols for 911 (Medical, Fire & Police). An Emergency Information Form (which is put inside the vial) is for your completion. Note: Have your doctor, pharmacist, or family help you complete the form if needed, and make sure it is kept up-to-date.
Insert the completed form into the vial. Place the completed Emergency Information form back into the vial.
Affix one of the orange stickers to the side of your fridge. The vial contains a fluorescent orange label to stick on your refrigerator door.
Place the vial into the door of your fridge. Place the vial in the refrigerator in one of the door shelves. Why the refrigerator? It is common to every home and easily located in an emergency.

Free Vial Pick Up Locations

  • Firehalls
  • Police Departments
  • Community Care Access Centre
  • Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
  • Pharmacies

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