Could a Simple Bottle Save Your Life?

Healthwatch West Berkshire
1 day ago
2 min read

Healthwatch West Berkshire Supports the Lions "Message in a Bottle" Scheme

When an emergency happens, every second counts. Emergency responders often need quick access to important information about a person's health, medications, allergies and emergency contacts. But what if the person is unable to communicate?

That's where the Lions Message in a Bottle scheme can help. The scheme is simple, free, and could make a significant difference in an emergency.

A small plastic bottle is kept in the fridge containing vital information about the person living in the home. Emergency services are trained to look for the bottle when they see the accompanying stickers placed on the front door and fridge.

Five Minutes That Could Make a Difference

✓ Complete a Message in a Bottle form

✓ Store the bottle in your fridge

✓ Place the supplied stickers on your front door and fridge

✓ Keep your information up to date

✓ Tell family members, friends or carers that you have one

In an emergency, this simple bottle could help responders access vital information when you are unable to communicate.

This information can help emergency responders make informed decisions quickly and contact loved ones if necessary.

Who Is It For?

The Message in a Bottle scheme can benefit anyone, but it is particularly useful for:

Older people living independently
People with long-term health conditions
Those taking multiple medications
People who live alone
Individuals with communication difficulties
Anyone who wants to be prepared in case of an emergency

Why the Fridge?

The fridge is one of the few household items that can be easily found in almost every home. It is also likely to survive incidents such as house fires, making it a reliable location for storing important information.

Supporting Independent Living

At Healthwatch West Berkshire, we know that many people want to remain independent and continue living safely in their own homes. Small practical measures like Message in a Bottle can provide reassurance for individuals, families and carers, while helping emergency services access vital information when it matters most.

Keep Your Information Up to Date

If you have a Message in a Bottle, it is important to review the information regularly and update it whenever your circumstances change, particularly if:

Your medication changes
You develop a new health condition
Your emergency contacts change
You move house or change GP surgery

Find Out More

If you would like to obtain a Message in a Bottle or learn more about the scheme, the Patient Information Point at West Berks Hospital have them, you can contact your local Lions Club, for more information,