Vial of Life Program
Vials help provide pertinent medical information for first responders

First responders need all the medical information they can get when treating a patient. The new Vial of Life initiative, made possible through a partnership between the Forsyth County Fire Department and Kroger Pharmacy, will help provide this vital information.

The Vial of Life program gives citizens the ability to prepare medical information for first responders. In the event of a medical emergency, the vial, containing medical information of the individual’s choosing, is then available for Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to review.  

“Having this medical information available is especially helpful in the event that a patient is alone and unable to speak or communicate with first responders,” Captain Jason Shivers said. “We certainly think that this program will be of great benefit.”  

How the Program Works
Citizens put any and all pertinent medical information on a provided sheet and place the sheet in the provided and well-marked medical vial. The vial is then placed in the refrigerator door for easy finding by first responders. An alert sticker is also provided for placement on or near the front door. This sticker allows for easy recognition by first responders, informing them that the Vial of Life program is present in the residence.  

While the program is targeted toward senior citizens, it is available to any citizen. Vials can be obtained from any staffed Forsyth County fire station, Fire Department Headquarters, the Forsyth County Senior Center or any Forsyth County Kroger Pharmacy.  

“The Fire Department is certainly appreciative of Kroger Pharmacy’s support of this program,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “It would not be possible without their logistical assistance and their donation of the vials and stickers.”  

To receive additional information about the Vial of Life program, call 770.781.2180.