Time is critical for those involved in a life-threatening auto accident. Now, a new program is being launched to help first responders responding to those accidents provide specialized care.

“It’s called the Yellow Dot program,” said Sheriff Dennis Meeks. “It’s designed to assist citizens and first responders in the event of an automobile accident or other medical emergency involving the participant’s vehicle. It can help save lives by improving communication at a time when accident victims may not be able to communicate for themselves.”

Program participants will be required to have their photos taken and to complete a personal information form.

“That information will be placed in a Yellow Dot folder, and the participant given a Yellow Dot decal for the vehicle,” Meeks said. “That personal information form, with the photo attached, will be placed into the folder to be put in the glove box of their vehicle. The decal, which is put on the vehicle’s rear window, alerts first responders that medical information can be found in the glove compartment.

“By having that type of information readily at hand, it gives vital medical information to first responders if they are unable to physically or verbally communicate for themselves, thus ensuring that their current medications and pre-existing medical conditions are considered when treatment is administered for injuries,” he said.

The program, which is being funded through an Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs grant, is being provided free of charge to participants and will debut on Wed., Jan. 26, at 10 a.m. at the Andalusia Adult Activity Center.

Sign-ups for those in the Florala and Opp areas will be scheduled in the future.