(photo, from l-r)John Bace, Director of Services for the Handicapped and Councilwoman Susan Berland Sign Up Residents for the "Red Dot" Program

October 29, 2002 - Working with John Bace, the Director of Services for the Handicapped, Councilwoman Susan Berland announced the "Red Dot" program, an innovative undertaking designed to inform emergency medical personnel of medical conditions which may effect treatment at an accident scene. Residents who elect to participate in this program will place a red dot on the rear corner of the driver's side back window of their vehicle. This dot will alert medical personnel that vital medical and emergency information regarding the driver is located in the vehicle's glove compartment.

"The Red Dot program will give emergency personnel immediate access to information regarding medications or illnesses if the person being treated is unable to communicate," explained Councilwoman Berland. "I am happy to sponsor this free program conducted by John Bace's office. Huntington has always led the way in providing new and helpful services to seniors and the handicapped. The Red Dot program will provide an additional safety net to its participants and help make sure that in an emergency situation they receive the proper care."

"It is important that certain medical conditions, such as a heart condition or diabetes, be known before some treatments are given. This will provide a standard form and secure location for this vital information," stated John Bace.

The Town will help participants fill out a picture identification form containing health history, medications and emergency contact numbers on October 29^th and 30^th between 10:30 and 2:30 at the Village Green Senior Center at 425 Park Avenue Huntington.

"I encourage all our seniors and all our handicapped residents to take advantage of this program," Councilwoman Berland stated. "I feel it is our responsibility as elected officials to provide these added services whenever we can to help protect the life and safety of Huntington residents."

Further information can be obtained by calling John Bace at 351-3233.