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What Is the Vial of Life?

The Vial of Life is a program that was developed to provide medical personnel with a person's vital information. According to the Medic One Foundation, Life is an acronym for "Lifesaving Information for Emergencies." A Vial of Life contains pertinent information that could save your life in the presence of a medical emergency. Such information can include the types of medications you're taking, if you have medical conditions such as diabetes or if you speak a language other than English.

  1. How it Works

    • Place a Vial of Life in Your Refrigerator

      Many Vial of Life packets contain a medical form, a magnet and stickers. The medical form is filled out by you. Depending on where you get a Vial of Life packet (such as through the American Red Cross or at drug stores), the form comes in an empty vial or in a plastic baggie. The sticker provided by a Vial of Life packet should be placed on the baggie or on the vial. If you use the baggie, the magnet holds the baggie on your refrigerator. If you use the vial, the vial is placed on your refrigerator. The packet provides an extra sticker to place on an outside window or door.

    Why the Fridge?

    • Medical personnel know where to look for medical information.

      Medical personnel are trained to look for Vial of Life medical information in refrigerators. According to Bartell Drugs, your fridge protects your medical information in case of a fire

    Do Not Resuscitate

    • Medical professionals need to know about DNRs.

      In addition to important medical information contained on your Vial of Life form, it's important to include a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order, if that is your preference. Unless you state do not resuscitate on your medical form, a medical person's job is to save your life.

    Considerations

    • Carry a Vial of Life in your car.

      It may help to carry a Vial of Life in the glove compartment of your car. If you're ever in a car accident, medical personnel can find your medical information in the glove box. You may also opt to place a Vial of Life sticker on your windshield to help alert medical personnel that you're carrying vital information in your car.

    Organizations

    • The American Red Cross provides free services.

      Several organizations are involved with the Vial of Life program. If you don't have the money to buy a Vial of Life packet, many corporations provide the service for free. Organizations such as the American Red Cross allow you to print the Vial of Life medical forms and decals on their website for free.

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