In 2010 the Santa Clara Fire Department (SCFD) introduced the File of Life kit. The File of Life is a voluntary program designed to enable firefighters and other medical personnel to quickly obtain vital information regarding your medical history to support your needs. During an emergency, time is critical, and having this information handy facilitates a quicker assessment and treatment leading to a greater level of care.

The File of Life is a vinyl pocket containing the File of Life form where you can record your medical history and other vital emergency information. To use, simply fill out the File of Life form, return the form to the pocket, and place it in a prominent spot on your refrigerator using the attached magnet. Your first responders know to look for the File of Life on your refrigerator if you are incapacitated and unable to relay important medical or contact information.

The File of Life is also large enough for you to include other critical medical forms, such as Advanced Directives, POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) forms, and Durable Power of Attorney over Health Care Decisions. It is the goal of the SCFD to respectfully carry out your wishes and utilizing the File of Life will further enable emergency personnel to do so. Please remember it is important to keep any information in the File of Life current and accurate, and the file affixed on your refrigerator. The File of Life kit is available at no cost as a public service from the Santa Clara Fire Department. File of Life kits can be obtained at your local SCFD fire station or by contacting the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division at 408-615-4930.

HOW TO USE THE FILE OF LIFE

1. Fill out the File of Life form completely. Additional/replacement File of Life forms can be downloaded here: SCFD File of Life Form
2. Fold the File of Life form in half and place it inside the magnetic pouch provided.
3. Enclose in the pouch a copy of any Advanced Directives (DNR (Do Not Resuscitate), POLST, Living Will, etc.) that you wish to be followed.
4. Place the File of Life pouch on the door of your REFRIGERATOR.

POLST AND DNR FORMS

For information on POLST or DNR forms, please visit: 
Santa Clara County EMS Agency – POLST and DNR Information

POLST forms can be obtained from the SCFD EMS Division by calling 408-615-4930. They are also available for download in various languages through the California POLST website.