Rochester Fire enacts two safety programs for seniors

File of life cards are handed out at a recent gathering of seniors in the city. (Courtesy photo)

The Rochester Fire Department announced last week that they are implementing two risk reduction programs that aim to help people with medication management and potential medical emergencies.

"We purchased pillboxes to distribute throughout the community in an effort to assist those who use daily medications and need help organizing their schedule and prescribed dosages," said Adam Hughes, Deputy Chief of Prevention. "The pill boxes are available at no cost at the Fire Department."

In addition to the pill box program, the department is rolling out another program designed to help residents in the case of a medical emergency called the File of Life card.

The card enables emergency responders to obtain a brief summary of an individual's medical history during an emergency. The card lists the patient's name, emergency contacts, medications and dosages, surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, insurance information, and healthcare wishes.

Anyone can get one at the fire department or access the card for printing at https://www.rochesternh.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif1131/f/uploads/file_of_life.pdf