In this case, ICE is short for “In Case of Emergency” and it’s information that you should consider adding to the contact list on your cell phone. There are also phone apps on the market for this purpose.

ICE information can be extremely helpful when police, paramedics or firefighters arrive at the scene of a medical emergency or accident and the person they’re helping is unable to communicate.  If the injured or ill individual has a cell phone with them, responders can look for ICE info. Here's how you want to enter it: ICE1, Annie Brown, 555-555-5555, ICE2, Cathy Doe, 444-444-4444, etc.

Now, it’s not a perfect system. Some people password their mobile devices so info can’t be accessed by others, and in some cases your cell phone may be damaged or destroyed. That’s why it’s essential to write the info down and carry it in your wallet or purse at all times. It behooves all of us to be prepared. By taking a few minutes right now, you could be saving yourself or the person you're caring for valuable time and heartache when it matters most.