Being Safe Means Wearing Identification - Brief Article

Camping Magazine, Jan, 2000

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 122,000 people were injured by automobiles while running, walking, or cycling in the U.S. during 1998. Another 5,570 were killed. Others fell victim to accidents such as heart attacks, chronic fatigue, blackouts, or concussions.

Chances are, only a small percent of these individuals were carrying identification. Imagine the confusion at accident scenes and hospitals as people scrambled to determine the names of victims. At home, unnotified family members worried. "Accidents happen... when they do, personal identification can prevent a serious delay in treatment or save a life."

Most runners, walkers, and cyclists don't carry ID for two reasons: they just haven't thought about it; or, carrying a wallet or driver's license is too awkward. Before production, Medal Logics surveyed an estimated 200 local runners and joggers - stopping them during exercise routines. About 10 had an ID. Most said they didn't carry an ID because they hadn't thought of it. To address this problem, Medal Logics is increasing public awareness through publicity. For problem two, they have developed an identity medal that is fashioned after a military dog tag. Laser engraved, it provides space for all critical information.

The medal, in plated or polished stainless steel or sterling silver, comes with a 24-inch beaded chain. Laser-engraved images on the front and back usually include a name, address, phone number, and blood type. Some people also list allergies, medical conditions, or organ-donation requests.

Another market for Medal Logics are children who go to camps each year.

One owner said, "the premise behind wearing an Identity Medal is similar to that of a seatbelt or bicycle helmet: we don't wear seatbelts or strap on helmets because we assume we are going to get into an accident - we do it just in case. Our mission is to get people to realize that they should wear identification - just in case."