The Importance of Carrying ID
Briskly jogging the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, hiking in the Cordillera de los Andes, or casually walking the courtyard of the Louvre in Paris. There is a common denominator that should be part of these journeys and all others around the globe, but is absent millions of times a day. Something so simple, that its simplicity is part of the reason it is neglected. It is a lightweight and unobtrusive tool, hopefully somewhat durable, able to withstand the elements but most importantly, when needed has the necessary content to serve its purpose... What is it you ask? Personal identification.
Has this thought ever crossed your mind while getting ready to hit the trail? This thought crosses millions of people's minds around the world daily, but is often overlooked out of the inconvenience aspect. To simplify and make more convenient, it should not be complicated. At a minimum it should state who you are and be able to provide the basic information about you and your health, should an emergency situation occur. What essential information should it include?
- Your name
- Emergency contact names and phone numbers
- Allergies
- Medical conditions or special needs
- Blood type
- Primary care physician
Basically any information that would be helpful should the unexpected occur and you are rendered helpless to provide. In the United States alone, in 2004, over half million people were admitted to the emergency rooms completely unconscious. In a situation like a car accident, heart attack, violent attack, unknown medical condition, heat stroke, and similar, every bit of additional information is vital, especially when traveling thru unfamiliar areas or territories. This basic information could save your life or the life of someone close to you. Ways to take action:
Write information on a durable piece of paper or use a business card to stuff in your sock, shoe or pocket
Carry information in a shoe pocket, shoewallet or wrist wallet
Buy a laminated or medal ID card or bracelet
Write information inside a baseball cap or tag on your clothes
Medical professionals around the world are trained to search for personal identification and information, so make it easily accessible. Let's get serious about carrying identification for ourselves and the people we care about and take action today.
Credits:
This article was expressly written for Run The Planet by Brian Ouellette, president and co-founder of shoewallet.com in Seattle (Usa/Washington). By partnering up with non-profits, businesses and organizations around the world to help increase road/trail safety awareness, he is leading their "Safer Roads and Trails Campaign - Be Smart. Be Safe. Carry ID". Interested in working with shoewallet.com to perpetuate this important message or have feedback? Shoewallet would love to hear from you: contact partners@shoewallet.com or call 800.618.4630. Illustration copyright © 2005 byRun The Planet.
