Emergencies are unplanned events, but you can be prepared. The Vial of Life program was developed for anyone with medical conditions, a history of illness, and those who routinely take special or prescription medication.

The Vial of Life is a lifesaving tool widely used across the country by emergency responders. Simply put, it is a medicine vial that provides immediate access to your medical history. During a medical emergency, paramedics often look for the patient's medications to assist them in determining a course of action, particularly when a patient is unconscious.

The Vial of Life program kit includes a large medicine container and a form. It is placed on the top shelf inside the refrigerator so any emergency responder can locate it quickly and easily. A magnet is provided for the front of your refrigerator.

Get your free Vial of Life kit at Station 35.

How to Use the Vial of Life

• Complete the Vial of Life form. Use two if necessary.
• Fold and roll the form so it will fit inside the medicine bottle.
• Attach any “Do Not Resuscitate” or advanced medical directives.
• Ensure that the Vial of Life label is on the bottle.
• Place your initials on the label if there is more than one Vial of Life container in your refrigerator.
• Place the medicine bottle on the top shelf of your refrigerator and ensure that it stays there.
• Attach the Vial of Life magnet at the top right-hand side of your refrigerator door. This will alert emergency personnel that you are participating in the program.
• Update your information if your medical condition or medications change. Use a new form if necessary.

Notes About the Vial of Life

• Do not place any medications in the Vial of Life container.
• Your Vial of Life container should only contain medical information.
• The Vial of Life program is a free life-safety preparedness program coordinated by the City of Folsom Fire Department.

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.

Acrobat Reader Windows Media Player Word Viewer Excel Viewer PowerPoint Viewer