Frequently Asked Questions

•What is a Medical Tag?
•What Information should I include on my tag?
•How many characters can I have engraved on my tag?
•How will the emergency services know where to look?
•Which type of tag is right for me?
•What if I am allergic to some metals?
•How should I look after my tag?
•What should I do if my medical information changes?
•How durable is a Medical Tag?
•What other information can I include?

What is a Medical Tag?
A Medical Tag is a bracelet, necklace, watch or key fob which is used to convey vital medical information to emergency services in the event of an accident. Increasingly some drugs and items used in the treatment of injuries can cause allergic reactions and any such allergy must be realted to those treating a patient. If you are unable to verbally communicate this then a Medical Tag may help you.

What Information should I include on my tag?
Any hidden medical conditions or ailments which you may need to communicate to the emergency services in the event of an accident or emergency. You may wish to include your name, date of birth (useful to locate medical records) the contact number of your GP or Consultant and possibly a contact for your next of kin. If you are having dificulties in deciding please speak to your Doctor or other medical professional for advise on what you require. You may also wish to indicate if your religion may affect the way in which treatmant is carried out (e.g. Jehovah’s Witnesses) Please note that there is a limited space on the tags and on some types the engraving may be limited to only three lines. Please bear in mind that people often change their mobile phone numbers so ensure that the contacts used will be current and obtainable.

How many characters can I have engraved on my tag?
As we are able to vary the font size on your tag we do not set a character limit. However some types of tag are smaller than others and so the space is limited. Against each tag is stated an approximate number of lines possible as an indicator. Try to compare your details against those shown in our example tag to ensure a good fit. We will advise if the details you have provided are too long or unsuitable for the tag you have chosen. Please note we cannot engrave SOS Talisman items.

How will the emergency services know where to look?
The Caduceus and the Aesculapian Snake and Staff are now the Internationally recognised symbols of the medical profession. Increasingly in the UK, these symbols are being used on NHS, Emergency and Private Health Care vehicles. As part of medical training all health professionals, paramedics, first aiders and first responders are trained to look for such items when assessing a casualty. The tag is generally located at a pulse point so that, even if missed in an initial examination it will become evident later in treatment. Our tags have also been featured in St Johns Ambulance literature and on episodes of BBC Casualty and E4"s Hollyoaks drama series.

Which type of tag is right for me?
If you have a condition in which the medication and the type of illness remains the same it is best to opt for the engraved type of tag. Please bear in mind that often people change their mobile phone numbers so ensure that the contacts used will be current and obtainable. If your condition or medication will change over time it would be best to purchace an Allertag™ with rolled up insert, U-Tag USB, ZapTag or SOS Talisman type with the paper insert that may be changed. Please note we cannot guarantee the water resistance on the SOS type.

What if I am allergic to some metals?
Our Medical Tags and SOS talisman products are available in a variety of metals and finishes. Gold or Silver tags may be more suited if you are allergic to nickel or base metals. We would advise you not to buy a plated item if you have an allergy to nickel.

How should I look after my tag?
Medical tags and SOS Talisman should be periodically cleaned over with a soft cloth to avoid build up of products which may attack the surface of the metal. Do not allow perfumes, aftershaves or any other products to remain on the tag for any length of time. Silver tags should never be brought into contact with salt, bleach or any other corrosive substance. If this does occur wash the tag immediately with clean water taking special care not to allow water to enter the SOS capsule. Do not use any harsh abrasive products to clean. The capsules on all SOS type tags should be checked periodically to ensure no damp has entered and affected the insert. After an SOS capsule is opened make sure that the rubber "O" ring is present, has not corroded and that the top is screwed down tightly. New "O" rings can be obtained by calling 0121 233 7455.

What should I do if my medical information changes?
If your medical information changes we may be able re-engrave the tag for you (engraved medical tags only) Please call our sales staff on 0121 233 7455 for details. If you wish to change the details on an SOS Talisman we can supply additional information strips. To order please click here.

How durable is a Medical Tag?
A medical tag should withstand day to day wear and tear as with any item of jewellery. However acidity in the skin of some people (especially those on strong medication) and perfumes may tarnish the finish of some products more quickly. Please follow the care tips above in order to extend the life of your item. In addition to this we can supply spare parts for many of our items please call our sales team on 0121 233 7455A for details. To order new SOS tops please click here.

What other information can I include?
You may include any information you deem to be relevant to yourself. Types of additional information could include advance directives, your address, opt-out of the proposed organ donation scheme, instructions to alert of medications carried etc.