Central Dispatch shift supervisor Marc McCullough will be telephoning county residents to update information on their medical alert forms. More than 700 residents in Lapeer County participate in the life-saving service. Photo by MIKE MERCIER

While aid is on the way during emergencies, 9-1-1's medical alert speaks on behalf of the victim, and allows medical personnel to prepare—even before they reach your door.

Using valuable information provided by county residents, 9-1-1 flags addresses and provides the information to first responders; that data is often passed on the hospital emergency room.

"It could save your life," said Lapeer County Central Dispatch Director Vic Martin. "It lets first responders or firefighters know of a medical condition."

Typical information listed on medical alert forms are allergies to medication, current medication used, disabilities, heart conditions, high blood pressure conditions, chronic hearing or vision problems.

"It's important to let rescuers know if someone is bedridden," Martin said. "Firefighters would need to know if oxygen is in use."

Residents may also wish to list their pets. Dogs are usually protective of their owners, and it's a good idea to let police, firefighters and EMS know about their presence, Martin said.

The information assists rescuers in helping patients.

"We appreciate the advance information," said Lapeer County EMS Executive Director Galland Burnham. "It's also a really good idea to list emergency contacts who can speak for you if you can't. If we know what medication someone is on, and we suspect complications, we can know how to counteract the problem."

The service, which is not available in all areas, has been enlarging steadily in Lapeer County.

"It's grown to 701 households from 500 last year," said Central dispatch shift supervisor Marc McCullough.

Residents in the system may expect a call from McCullough as he confirms data on each form and makes changes if necessary.

"I update them every year," he said. "I expect it to take over four months before I'm through."

Some residents forget they're in the system and suspect they're being scammed when they receive his call. McCullough never asks for bank or Social Security numbers.

"We just ask to verify the information we already have, and ask if they're any changes," McCullough said.

To participate in the medical alert form service, contact Central Dispatch at (810) 667-0292, or fill out a form online at www.lapeercounty911.org.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com