Emergency Medical Information When Seconds Matter

The File of Life Program is a free community service offered by the Winthrop Harbor Fire Department designed to help our paramedics provide faster, safer, and more effective medical care during an emergency.

When a medical emergency occurs, especially if the patient is unable to speak, emergency responders must make critical decisions within moments. The File of Life ensures that essential medical information is immediately available to our crews when they arrive at your home.

What Is the File of Life?

The File of Life is a simple medical information form that contains vital details about each person in your household. The completed form is placed in a highly visible location—typically on your refrigerator—so emergency responders know exactly where to find it. Some File of Life packets also include a small alert sticker for your front door, letting responders know that your medical information is available inside.

Why It’s Important

During a medical emergency, responders may not immediately know:

• what medications you take

• what medical conditions you have

• if you have allergies

• who your emergency contacts are

The File of Life provides this information instantly, helping our paramedics make informed treatment decisions without delay.

Who Should Use It?

The File of Life is helpful for all residents, and is especially encouraged for:

• seniors

• individuals with chronic medical conditions

• anyone taking multiple prescriptions

• residents with allergies, diabetes, seizure disorders, heart or lung conditions

• households where someone may have difficulty communicating during an emergency

What Information Is Included

Each File of Life form includes space for full name and date of birth, primary doctor and preferred hospital, current medical conditions, current medications and dosages, known allergies, and emergency contact names and phone numbers. A separate form should be completed for each person in the household.

How to Use the File of Life

Complete the form fully and accurately. Place the form on your refrigerator in a visible location. If provided, place the alert sticker on your main entry door. Update the form whenever information changes, such as new medications, new diagnoses, or new emergency contacts.

How to Get a File of Life Packet

Winthrop Harbor residents may obtain a File of Life packet by visiting the Winthrop Harbor Fire Department or by downloading the form from this webpage and placing it on your refrigerator in a clear sleeve or envelope. Magnetic envelopes are available at the fire station free of charge While supplies last. Please call 847-872-5957 or stop in during normal business hours.

A simple step that can make a life-saving difference.

The File of Life Program is one more way the Winthrop Harbor Fire Department is working to protect the health and safety of our community. Taking just a few minutes to complete the form today can make a critical difference tomorrow.

Privacy Note

The File of Life form should contain only what you’re comfortable sharing for emergency care. It is intended to be used only during emergency response to help provide appropriate medical treatment.

How to get a File of Life packet (Winthrop Harbor)

Option A (preferred): Pick up at the Fire Department.

Winthrop Harbor residents may request a File of Life packet from the Winthrop Harbor Fire Department 847-872-5957 (while supplies last).

Option B: Download and print.

You can also print the form at home and place it on your refrigerator in a clear sleeve or envelope.