Whilst Message in a Bottle (MiaB) is not solely a Lions Club initiative, it is an initiative that very many Lions Clubs across Ireland have taken to and recognise as a means of fulfilling their motto “We Serve”. The Lions Message In a Bottle scheme is a simple idea designed to encourage people to keep their personal and medical details on a standard form and in a common location – the Fridge. Green Cross Stickers are then placed inside the front and back door of the house and also on the outside of the fridge and so in the event that the emergency services are required the emergency personnel are aware that the personal details of the patient are inside in the fridge.
Whilst it is focused on the more vulnerable people in our community, anyone can have an accident at home, so this scheme can benefit anyone. Anyone could find that Emergency Services, Doctors etc. are called to their house. By completing the information on the form, it will save the Emergency Services valuable time in identifying the individual and whether they have special medication or allergies or not. It is not only a potential lifesaver, but also it provides peace of mind to the users, their friends and families in knowing that prompt medical treatment is provided and that the next of kin and emergency contacts are notified.
The intention of the Lions Club is to distribute MiaB to pharmacies, dispensaries, doctors surgeries etc or anyone dealing with individuals that are in need of care or living on their own.
The MiaB will be distributed Free of Charge as Athlone Lions Club are funding the project.