What If There's an Emergency?

Here are a few ways to make it easy for emergency help to get to you in time and provide the best possible service.

GOT YOUR BACK: What if you can't reach that smoke detector with the low battery alarm that's chirping? What if you've misplaced your cell phone and need someone to call to help you locate it? Not sure if you actually did turn off the water before leaving for your winter vacation? In the Got Your Back Neighbor Network: High Vista we recommend that everyone identify three people in walking distance of home. Have a conversation with each asking if they will be willing to be one of your "Key People". That is, someone you can call anytime, in case something comes up that may not rise to the level of a 911 call. Give at least one of them a copy of your house key and information on how to disable your home security system if they must come in while it's active.

ICE NEIGHBOR: Our across the street neighbor (and good friend) Helen is listed in my cell phone as ICE-Trusted Neighbor (first line) with her name on the second line. Likewise, my husband is listed as ICE-Husband. Both are also tagged as "favorites". When a first responder gets to your home, they'll often look for an ICE contact in your cell phone. It might be someone nearby who knows you well, and maybe even knows how to reach your next of kin. Or it might be an out of town next of kin or dear friend you want to know right away that something unusual is going on.

SMART 911: The Henderson County Sheriff's Office encourages us to sign up for Smart 911, a nationwide service. Once you've signed up, first responders will be aware of important information you have provided that will help Police, Fire, and EMS locate and help you in an emergency. It will also allow you to receive timely updates on weather, traffic, and other emergencies in your area.

EMERGENCY CHECKLIST: If you don't want to put your private information online through Smart 911, here's a Medical Checklist you can download, print, fill out, and attach to your refrigerator (if placing inside the refrigerator, place it in a sealed plastic bag to protect from moisture). First responders know to look there for important info on medical conditions, key contacts and prescriptions you are taking.