Sooner or later a friend, relative or stranger in need will have a medical emergency and you must summon someone who can help immediately. Every second is crucial in a life-threatening medical emergency. It's a comforting thought to know that you can call 911 in the United States and Canada to get immediate help.
You need to be prepared for an emergency and being prepared to call 911 is no different. You must think ahead. Preparing for the day when you have to make that dreaded cell phone call is quick and easy.
Make sure you can pick up your cell phone immediately anywhere, anytime. You may lose precious seconds if it is in another room or you have to fumble around in all the stuff in your purse to find it. An attachable carrying case can be a lifesaver if you are outside watering your plants when an emergency happens.
Many medical emergencies happen in the middle of the night, especially with seniors. Consider putting your cell phone on the night stand beside your bed or somewhere close enough that you can hear and reach it immediately if someone calls and needs your help.
Make sure the cell phone is charged at all times. This may sound obvious but it needs to be part of a plan. Follow your phone manufacturer's guidelines and make charging a part of your routine. Try charging your phone at a time when you can't hear it anyway, like when you are in the shower, then check for important messages.
Most manufacturers offer chargers for your car that plug into the cigarette lighter. This can be a great alternative to charging your phone at home if you spend a great deal of time on the road or are on vacation.
Cell phones are particularly valuable for seniors and the disabled. If you care about the health of a loved one, make sure they carry a cell phone with them at all times. This is a true story: A woman aged 90 with a history of medical problems was living independently in her own home. Her daughter had bought her a cell phone and urged her to keep it with her at all times. One night at 3:00 a.m. the woman was making herself a snack and fell asleep in her chair. She fell to the floor and broke her hip. Dazed, in shock, in pain and unable to move she used her cell phone to call her daughter who immediately called 911. An ambulance took her to the hospital emergency room where the doctors performed surgery to repair her hip. Thanks to the daughter, a cell phone and an expert team of medical professionals the woman is able to walk again and lives in her own home.
If you can afford a cell phone, by all means get one. Most companies offer inexpensive plans. If you are not hi-tech oriented, cell phones are not difficult to use. Learn how to make and receive a call. That's all you need to know in an emergency.
