Do You Know E.R.I.K.?

William Taylor

The question should really be: What is E.R.I.K. ?

E.R.I.K. is an Emergency Response Information Kit developed in Manitoba by The Boni-Vital Council for Seniors--Winnipeg, in response to community concerns regarding the availability of adequate information in emergency situations where every second counts. It is a kit which provides Emergency Services personnel with potentially lifesaving information.

A key part of E.R.I.K., which is in a compact plastic folder that attaches magnetically to your refrigerator, is a form where one can keep information such as: emergency contact numbers; the name of your doctor; medical history; any medications used; the name of the pharmacy used, as well as other vital informtion options. A RED STICKER comes with the kit to place on your door. Paramedics then know that the possible life-saving information will be on the fridge door! Emergency Services’ paramedics do not have to search through medicine cabinets or search out neighbours to find potential life-saving information. The E.R.I.K. program is promoted and endorsed by the cities of Brandon and Winnipeg Fire/Paramedic Services, and is recognized by emergency services throughout the province. E.R.I.K. is available throughout Manitoba from Seniors’ Centres or Community Resource Councils.

Of what does E.R.I.K. Consist?

A health information form, which a health care professional, a pharmacist or your family may assist you with; • A place to insert your Health Care

Directive or Living Will, if you have one. A form is enclosed if you wish to make a Health Care Directive with your doctor and family; • A round, red sticker to adhere to your

front entrance. (Paramedics will know where to find the information); • A plastic folder with magnets to hold all this information on the front of your fridge.

You may consider taking E.R.I.K. with you when you travel for an extended period. In the case of an emergency in a vehicle, or away from home, paramedics advise that emergency contact numbers be kept in your wallet--the first place they will look. Keep a small sheet of contact info near your driver’s licence or Manitoba Health Card. It’s worth the peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. In closing, you may wish to check with your senior centres or emergency services for information on “ Lock Boxes” or “Key Safe Lock Box.” It is a much better process than having to break down the door to save someone. n