Update: ICE Numbers in Cell Phones are No Longer a Useful Solution

ICE entry on phone
Last December, we posted: Got A-Fib? Add ICE to Your Cell Phone. (ICE stands for “In case of emergency” entries in your cell phone address book.)
Started by a paramedic in Britain, ICE entries allow first responders (e.g. paramedics, firefighters) to contact the cell phone owner’s next of kin to obtain important medical information.
What’s the Problem with ICE Entries?
Many modern ‘smart’ cell phones require a passcode to unlock and access the owner’s address book. This prevents medical staff from getting to your emergency contact info.
Solution: Carry a written copy, too. Write down your medical contact information and include in your wallet, medical ID bracelet or necklace. A good place to start is a wallet card as most of us usually have our wallets handy.
Print a Custom ICE Card
To help you make your ICE or medical ID, we have Free online sources for printing your own wallet cards. (Updated 1-14-18).
• GetICECard.com by ICE Gear
• Printable Emergency Medical ID Card (in PDF format) from AllFreePrintable.com
• Print Your Own Emergency Medical I.D. Card from AllenLawrence.com
• Emergency Contact Card (in PDF format) from American Red Cross
They offer an online form (with nothing to install or download) to customize with your information. Then, print, trim, fold and add to your wallet or purse. (Note: none of your personal information is stored on their websites.)
Other Options: Key Ring or Gym Bag Tag
If you want a key ring tag, ICE Gear offers a personalized laminated tag at a very reasonable price.
Similar in size to your gym or grocery loyalty tags, they can be attached to car keys, shoe laces (for runners), zippers, gym bags and more.
Made with durable, high-visibility materials. For $9.99 you get 4 tags. Shipping is free.
ICE Gear also offers a more detailed custom, laminated credit card-type wallet card for $11.99.
Related reading: ‘What Emergency Medical Info Should You Carry With You?‘