Why It’s Crucial to Review Your Emergency Contacts Regularly

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with a client and her adult son. As we reviewed her estate plan and other critical aspects of her personal planning, our conversation turned to an often-overlooked detail—emergency contacts. While we frequently think about updating wills or beneficiaries, we sometimes forget the simpler yet equally important task of reviewing who can be called in a moment of crisis. This meeting was a great reminder of how essential it is to keep emergency contact information up-to-date, not just in legal documents, but on everyday items like phones and wallets.

The Importance of Emergency Contacts

Emergency contacts serve as a bridge between you and those who can make decisions or provide crucial information if you’re unable to do so. Whether it’s a medical emergency or an unexpected situation where you cannot communicate, having the right people listed can make a significant difference. For many of us, our emergency contacts haven’t been updated in years. Relationships change, phone numbers change, and sometimes the individuals we once trusted to handle emergencies may no longer be the best option.

In my meeting, we discussed three key places where emergency contact information should always be kept current:

• Mobile phones (both iPhones and Android devices)
• Physical cards or notes in wallets
• Medical alert systems, if applicable

How to Update Emergency Contacts on iPhones

If you use an iPhone, updating emergency contact information is a straightforward process, thanks to the Health app. Here’s how to ensure your information is current:

1. Open the Health App: This app is pre-installed on all iPhones.
2. Tap on Your Profile Picture: In the upper right corner, you’ll see your profile icon. Tap on it.
3. Select ‘Medical ID’: This section contains crucial information that first responders can access even if your phone is locked.
4. Edit Your Medical ID: Tap ‘Edit’ in the top right corner.
5. Scroll to ‘Emergency Contacts’: Here, you can add new contacts, remove outdated ones, and specify their relationship to you.
6. Save Changes: Once updated, click ‘Done’ to save your information.

These emergency contacts are accessible from the lock screen by selecting ‘Emergency’ and then ‘Medical ID’ during an emergency call.

Updating Emergency Contacts on Android Devices

Android phones have a similar feature, but the process may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. However, the general steps are as follows:

1. Open the Contacts App: On most Android phones, emergency contacts can be edited directly in the Contacts app.
2. Select ‘Groups’ or ‘Emergency Contacts’: Look for a section that allows you to designate specific contacts for emergencies.
3. Add or Edit Contacts: Select the option to add a new emergency contact or edit an existing one.
4. Save Changes: Confirm and save your updates.

Many Android devices also have a ‘Lock Screen Message’ or ‘ICE’ (In Case of Emergency) feature. To add emergency contact information:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select ‘Security & Lock Screen’.
3. Choose ‘Emergency Information’.
4. Add Medical and Emergency Contacts.

These details can be accessed directly from the lock screen, similar to the iPhone’s Medical ID.

Carrying Emergency Contact Information in Your Wallet

While technology is convenient, it’s important to have a low-tech backup. Phones can break, lose battery, or become inaccessible. Carrying a physical card with your emergency contact information can be invaluable in these situations.

Here’s what to include:

• Your Full Name and Address
• Primary Emergency Contact (with phone number)
• Secondary Contact
• Any Allergies or Medical Conditions
• Preferred Hospital or Physician

I often recommend using a laminated card or keeping a small, clearly labeled note in your wallet. Many people choose to place this behind their driver’s license or insurance card for easy visibility.

Why Review Emergency Contacts Annually?

Just like an annual estate plan review, taking a few minutes to check your emergency contact list ensures that the right people can be reached in critical moments. Life circumstances change, and you want to ensure the individuals listed are still able and willing to act in an emergency. Additionally:

• Relationships Shift: A divorce, a new partner, or even a move can alter who should be contacted.
• Phone Numbers Change: People change numbers or switch jobs, making old contacts unreliable.
• Health Considerations: If your health status changes, listing someone familiar with your condition can make a difference in the type of care you receive.

Involving Family Members in the Process

Updating emergency contacts can also serve as a conversation starter with family members about broader aspects of personal and estate planning. It ensures everyone is on the same page and knows how to access vital information.

During my meeting with the client and her son, we took time to not only update her phone but also to ensure her son had the same information on his device. This created peace of mind for both of them, knowing they had covered this simple yet crucial task together.

Conclusion

While updating emergency contacts may seem minor, it plays an essential role in personal preparedness. In moments of crisis, having the right people listed and easy to reach can save time and potentially lives. I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to review their emergency contact information—on their phones, in their wallets, and anywhere else it might be needed. It’s a small task with significant impact, ensuring that the right support is always just a call away.