Database can help in emergencies

I have read with interest the articles in your newspaper chronicling the problems brought to light in the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office. I applaud Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle for calling for a top-to-bottom review of the operations within the office. Hopefully this action will lead to resolving the issues of an overcrowded morgue and help to better notify a deceased loved one’s next of kin.

When it comes to promptly reaching a loved one’s next of kin in times of distress, or after death, I believe my office can be of great help. In 2009, my office implemented the Emergency Contact Database. This program allows all those who hold an Illinois driver’s license or identification card to voluntarily register their emergency contact numbers in the event they are ever involved in an emergency situation and unable to communicate directly with law enforcement. The information is stored securely so that it is only accessible by law enforcement and first responders.

Joining the Emergency Contact Database is simple. Illinois residents can go to the Secretary of State’s website at www.cyberdriveillinois.com.

I believe even the best programs can be made better. That is why I am looking at ways to enhance the database through the use of new advances in technology. I have instructed my staff to look at the plausibility and effectiveness of electronically embedding information on the back of driver’s licenses and ID cards — information such as next of kin, blood type and other critical medical information.

My heart goes out to family members who have lost a loved one, or have had a loved one injured and unable to communicate, and have not been made aware in a timely fashion of the unfortunate incident. It is my desire to ensure this doesn’t happen again.

Jesse White

Illinois Secretary of State