Whenever firefighters with the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service check homes for smoke detectors, they also offer another potentially lifesaving tool — the “file of life.”

The “file of life” is a folder with a magnetic strip on the back that can be hung on the family refrigerator. Inside are forms that can be filled out to provide residents’ medical information, from existing health conditions to allergies.

The comprehensive health document allows emergency personnel to quickly respond to someone’s needs if they’re incapacitated or can’t speak.

David Pazos, assistant chief with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue, explained, “It’s useful for anybody in the home” who may be unable to speak to first responders when help is needed.

The department is urging residents to make sure t

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