W.H.A.L.E. – We Have A Little Emergency!
In 2021, 162,298 children were injured in automobile crashes. These crashes happen when children ride with parents, grandparents, or other caregivers. The stickers in the kit will help identify a child who has been in a crash. Especially if the adult in the vehicle is seriously injured and unable to talk, emergency personnel have no easy way of identifying the child or his/her special needs-vital information that can help rescue efforts go more smoothly. Sometimes, just knowing the child’s name can help rescue workers comfort a frightened child, while knowing whom to contact in an emergency allows them to notify parents or the next closest relative right away. That’s when W.H.A.L.E. – “We Have A Little Emergency” can make a difference. Click here to order your kits.
The kits consist of 1-information sheet (one per order), a W.H.A.L.E. brochure, a child information card and adhesive pouch, 2-clear window decals and 2-regular stickers to be placed on sides of car seat.
How do we Recognize W.H.A.L.E.?
A W.H.A.L.E. Vehicle Window Decal. They are found in the lower rear corner of the back seat windows. Two decals are placed on either side of the car, letting rescuers know the occupants participate in the W.H.A.L.E. program and they can find information on the back of the car seat.
A W.H.A.L.E. Car Seat Sticker. They are attached to each side of the car seat. In the event the driver is unconscious or incapacitated, emergency first responders will find immediate life-saving information about that child via the information on the sticker on the back of the car seat.
The W.H.A.L.E. Information Label
This is a W.H.A.L.E. Information Label The 4”x5” label is completed and attached to the back of the Car Seat, which protects the child’s privacy while providing responders with valuable medical and contact information about the child. While attaching a photograph is optional, it is a valuable method to confirm the identity of the child, especially knowing that babysitters and other caregivers often use the same car seat for different children. Carefully check the photo and compare it to the child in the car seat.
What Does it Mean to Me?
You will have vital information for the child in the car seat, including their name, medical information, and contact information. You will be able to verify the identity by comparing a photograph with the occupant in the seat. AND you can provide better care for the child by helping comfort the child by using their name while contacting caregivers right away.
What Should I Do If I Recognize W.H.A.L.E. At An Accident?
After following protocol in the extraction of accident victims and providing emergency care, immediately check the back of the car seat for the W.H.A.L.E. Information Label. This will give you information to locate caregivers, provide necessary information to the receiving hospital, and provide safe care. Follow standard transportation protocols knowing you’ve made a big difference in the care of the child and facilitated reunification with family.