The Yellow Dot Program, which is designed to assist motorists and first responders in the event of an automobile accident or other medical emergency involving the participant’s vehicle, has been implemented in Morgan County as a cooperative effort between local police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services, sheriff’s deputies and state troopers.

The program launch occurred Wed., June 20, at the Turner Surles Community Center in Decatur. Morgan County Sheriff Ana Franklin and Decatur Police Chief Ed Taylor were joined by representatives of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to explain the purpose of the program and how it works. Also represented were the municipalities of Hartselle, Priceville, Falkville, Somerville and Trinity.

“The program can help save lives by improving communication at a time when accident victims may be unable to communicate themselves,” said Capt. Ron Livingston of the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department.

“I’ve responded to accidents where the victim was unable to give us the information we needed to get them the medical attention they required or to notify their family,” said Livingston. “Participation in the Yellow Dot Program prevents that from happening.

“Yellow Dot participants will have their picture taken, complete a personal information form, and will be given a Yellow Dot folder and decal. The personal information form, with the photo attached, will be placed in a folder and stored in the glove compartment of the vehicle. The Yellow Dot decal will be placed on the lower left corner of the real window of the vehicle. It alerts rapid responders that medical information can be found in the glove compartment.

The information provided in the folder will allow first responders to positively identify the person, get in touch with family or emergency contacts, and ensure that the person’s current medications, allergies and pre-existing medical conditions are considered when treatment is administered for injuries. It does not include the person’s birthday or Social Security number.