Recently, I went to Corvallis to stay with my mom for a few days because she had been down for some time with severe coughing and fatigue. I took her to a doctor’s appointment, where she was given a new medicine to try. That evening, feeling hopeful for relief, she popped the pill into her mouth. Within moments, she was gasping for air, her throat closing up, blocking the flow of oxygen. We tried to alleviate her distress, but it was apparent that we would be unable to. With our hearts pounding in fear, she pressed the button on the medical alert device she wore around her neck. Time seemed to creep slowly by while we waited, but it was rather quickly that two medical emergency vehicles and a group of firefighters arrived. It was all a frightening blur as I watched her struggling to breathe. Happily, the firefighter medics recognized her symptoms and immediately knew what to do. After about half an hour, she was breathing comfortably and didn’t even have to go to the hospital.
Clearly, this wasn’t a pleasant experience, but I did learn something important and useful. I was close to Mom’s side when the front door burst open, and the emergency medics came in. At that moment, the logical part of my brain was wondering how the crew got into the house. They obviously hadn’t broken through a window or crashed the door down. Mom later explained that her local fire department provided a service to help emergency personnel enter homes in just these types of situations. I saw first-hand just how valuable this assistance is.
Upon returning to Tualatin, I called the direct number to my fire department, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue. (503-649-8577) I asked if they had a similar program, and happily, the answer was yes. The kind voice on the other end of the line explained that you simply need to call the local 911 dispatch center at 503-629-0111 and provide them with an access code or indicate where they can find a key in case of a 9-1-1 emergency. She said they will add what they refer to as a “CAD Flag” in their system, which is connected to your address, and includes a note providing entry information to pass on to first responders. The more securely your key is hidden, the better. I would be hesitant to hide just the key outside my house without some kind of lockbox. She mentioned that deadbolts with access codes are becoming more common. Since those require installation, I asked about other options. Any good, strong key box should work. The type contractors use must be pretty safe, because they are used in abundance. You can place the key or box anywhere you’d like, as long as the dispatcher knows its location. How securely you want to protect your key is a personal choice, but it’s reassuring to know that local first responders are working with us and helping us feel safer and more easily accessible in the event of an emergency.
While on the line with TVF&R, I was asked if I’d like a copy of the MEDICAL EMERGENCY INFORMATION form to place on the outside of my refrigerator. The form is extensive and includes spaces to record your name, date of birth, physicians’ names and contact numbers, medical conditions, allergies, medications, and other relevant information. What a wise idea to have this information easily accessible for an emergency medical team, especially if you are unable to speak for yourself. They sent a copy of the form to me, as well as two extras for friends and family.
I’m always pleased when I learn of resources designed to help seniors live their best lives. Please share if you know of other resources or tips that you find especially helpful!
