ICE, which stands for In Case of Emergency, is a standardized method for storing contact and medical information that first responders can quickly access during a crisis. This system is designed to provide immediate, life-saving details when an individual is unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate on their own. By clearly labeling this information, a person ensures that paramedics or police can rapidly notify next of kin and understand any immediate health risks.
The Purpose and Origin of ICE Contacts
The concept of the ICE contact originated in 2005, following the terror bombings in the London Underground. British paramedic Bob Brotchie noted that many victims were unable to speak, leaving first responders unable to identify them or locate their family members. He recognized that most people carry a cell phone, making it a uniform way to find an emergency contact.
The initial recommendation was simple: users should create an entry in their phone’s address book labeled “ICE” followed by the person’s name. This standardized title alerts emergency personnel to the contact they should call. Rapid access to this information allows next of kin to provide a medical history and other background details, which enhances the success of emergency treatment. To ensure the entry appears at the top of alphabetical contact lists, users often prefix the title with a number or letter, such as “ICE1.”
Essential Information to Include in an ICE Profile
The modern ICE profile acts as a concise medical history for first responders. It should begin with fundamental personal details, including the individual’s full name, date of birth, and blood type. Listing any known medical conditions, such as diabetes or epilepsy, is important as they influence immediate treatment protocols.
The profile must also list all current prescription medications and any known allergies, particularly those to drugs or common medical materials. Providing allergy information prevents severe adverse reactions if emergency personnel administer necessary medication. If a person has no known allergies or conditions, explicitly stating “None” ensures first responders know the information was not overlooked. Finally, the profile must include the name, phone number, and relationship of at least one primary emergency contact.
Setting Up Digital and Physical ICE Records
Modern smartphones offer dedicated, built-in features to manage ICE information, ensuring it is available even when the device is locked. On iPhones, this is managed through the Health App’s Medical ID feature. Users must enter their details and enable the “Show When Locked” setting. First responders can then access this profile from the lock screen by selecting “Emergency” and then “Medical ID.”
Android devices have a similar function, typically called Emergency Information, found in the Settings menu or a pre-installed Safety application. Users input medical details and select emergency contacts from their phone list. Once set up, this information is visible on the locked screen by tapping “Emergency” or “Emergency Information.”
Non-digital alternatives remain an important backup. A physical ICE card carried in a wallet or purse should list the emergency contact, phone number, and basic medical history. Medical alert bracelets or necklaces offer an immediate, highly visible indicator of a serious underlying condition, such as a severe allergy or a cardiac issue. For a low-tech digital solution, a person can set their phone’s lock screen wallpaper to an image containing their contact name and number, making the information accessible at a glance.