Runner Safety: ICEdot

Running is a glorious, glorious sport. It keeps me healthy, both mentally and physically, and for that I am very grateful. Throughout my years as a runner, I have learned that there are two kinds of people out there hitting the pavement. There are those who enjoy running with others and those who prefer to run solo. I belong to the latter group. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind running with others. However, in my book, there truly is nothing better than simply being with me, myself, and I and the open road. I get to enjoy some peace and quiet, the only noise being that of my Brooks pounding the trail. I get to just hang out with my thoughts. Think through both my problems and successes. Escape my over articulated life and ZONE OUT. While running alone is wonderful, it is important to take all the necessary precautions in order to stay safe. Sure, we never plan for anything bad to happen but you just never know. That's why I like to be prepared. 

The kind people over at ICEdot, an emergency identification and notification service, offered me a free membership in exchange for my review. ICE stands for "in case of emergency" and is really simple yet effective.  You can choose either the free service or the premium service. The free service includes an ICEdot sticker, which is to be placed on the rear window of your car. This sticker is also called an "identifier" and informs first responders, such as paramedics, that you are an ICEdot member and that they can therefore find your medical information on your standardized emergency response form, which is supposed to be located in your glove compartment. This service is ideal for drivers.

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The premium service is ideal for runners or anyone out exercising on their own. It allows first responders to receive important medical information via any mobile device. A premium member has a wallet card which includes a picture and an 8 digit PIN. This 8 digit PIN can be texted to 51020 and the reply text will include both the patient's emergency contact and medical information. This service can be taken even one step further. The letter A can be texted to receive allergy information, M will give you information on the patients medication usage, and N will send a notification to the patients designated "in case of emergency." 

I simply take my wallet card with me on runs so that if needed, all my medical and contact information can be easily accessed. Easy access to this information can save lives. Like I said, while we certainly never plan for accidents to happen, it is always better to be safe than sorry. I definitely feel safer knowing I have this service. A measly $10/month for this premium service seems more than worth it to me! 

For a bit more information, check out this video created by ICEdot...

Thank you ICEdot. I love feeling safe on the road. 

P.S. We ate Thai Chicken Pizza the other night, a recipe I found over on How Sweet. I nearly passed out it was so good. Go check her out. Her food and photography are outstanding!