When first responders are called to a home in an emergency, they check for the Lions Message in a Bottle, a key initiative that ensures they have the information they need to provide first aid.
Message in a Bottle – Emergency Information Scheme
How the scheme works
A bottle is supplied which contains a pre-printed form and two green cross stickers. The user fills in the form that contains information that clearly identifies them, basic medical details, emergency contact numbers, any allergies, etc.
The form is put back in the bottle and then stored in the fridge. One of the green cross stickers is put on the door of the fridge and the other is put on the inside of the front door. If two people live in the house, then they both fill out a form and both forms are stored in the same bottle.
In an emergency, the presence of the green cross stickers will alert the emergency services to the presence of the “Message in a Bottle” and they would search for it in the fridge. The message will give the emergency services information on any conditions or allergies that the patient suffers from. If a patient is taken to hospital then the form is taken with them and given to the hospital staff on arrival. The “Message” helps the hospital staff find the relevant records and arrange treatment as quickly as possible.
Your GP and the Lions Clubs promote this scheme because we believe that this gives older or vulnerable people more confidence about their treatment in an emergency. It also gives peace of mind to relatives and friends that essential information will be available in an emergency situation.
The form is light green in colour to easily distinguish it from other forms used in the NHS.
The bottle and leaflets, forms, etc are free to the user and supplied by the Lions Clubs organisation, from your GP or other local suppliers.
What if the emergency services are called to your parent’s home?
Older adults are more likely to call emergency services for a variety of reasons, including a fall, injury, illness, collapse, confusion, distressing situation, or as a consequence of neighbourly concern.
If they are too unwell to provide vital information to any first responders it can lead to delays, or even errors, in providing the necessary care and support.
Consequently, emergency services across Britain, including within the NHS, support the life -saving initiative known as Message in a Bottle. This initiative provides peace of mind to all concerned because it ensures that prompt and effective assistance can be provided and any emergency contacts – including family and carers – can be notified.
The Lions Clubs’ Message in a Bottle kit can be a life-saver
Message in a Bottle was initially championed by the Lions Club, UK but is now widespread and routinely embedded in emergency care services.
Message in a Bottle is a simple way for people to keep their essential personal and medical details where they can be found by emergency services, on a standard form, and in a common location, i.e. the fridge.
It means that first responders can save valuable time by identifying an individual and knowing if they have any allergies or take any special medication.
Paramedics, police, fire-fighters and social services all support this life-saving initiative and know to look in the fridge when they see the Lions Message in a Bottle stickers displayed in the home.
Where can I get a Message in a Bottle?
Kits are supplied for free, and you can obtain a Message in a Bottle kit by contacting:
- Your local Ambulance Service
You might also be able to get a kit from a local organisation that stocks them, such as:
Pharmacies