MONTGOMERY— A $110,000 grant awarded by Gov. Bob Riley will help expand a program which ensures seniors and people with serious medical conditions receive more effective medical care after a car crash.
The free “Yellow Dot” program provides detailed medical information that can be crucial after a crash, especially in cases where the victim may not be able to communicate. Currently, 11 counties participate in the program; the grant will help the Northeast Alabama Traffic Safety Office bring the program to more counties.
“Much effort has gone into reducing the number of crashes on Alabama’s roadways, but for those involved in a crash, this simple, effective program can ensure that life-saving information is immediately available to first responders,” said Riley.
When signing up, participants receive a “Yellow Dot” decal and folder. The folder holds a form with the person’s name, photo, emergency contacts, personal physicians, medical conditions, recent surgeries, allergies and medication. The decal on the vehicle alerts first responders to look for the information packet in the glove compartment. The availability of this information ensures that the person’s medications and conditions are considered when medical personnel administer treatment.
Etowah County implemented the program in 2009 using funds from the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. While geared toward seniors, the program is available for any resident. Other counties using the program are Butler, Cherokee, Clay, Colbert, Escambia, Henry, Houston, Marshall, Montgomery and Pike.
ADECA is administering the grant from the State of Alabama Traffic Safety Trust Fund, an account that receives fines paid by individuals found guilty of driving without a license or with a suspended or revoked license. The fund is used for traffic safety purposes.
Information on the “Yellow Dot” program, including enrollment locations and contact persons by county, can be found on the ADECA website at www.adeca.alabama.gov.
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Contact: Josh Carples; Larry Childers
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