Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EID?
EID stands for Emergency Instruction Device, a smart device that provides interactive voice instructions to talk users through medical emergencies. An EID reduces the “panic factor” that accompanies traumatic situations and enables anyone at the scene to take quick and decisive action until professional help arrives. It’s also a flexible tool for first aid training. Back to top
What is a SET System?
SET stands for Self-Contained Emergency Treatment (SET) system, a comprehensive system for first aid training and emergency response. SETs organize everything needed for response in one convenient kit – an EID, prepackaged supplies color-coded to the trauma buttons on the EID, personal safety and scene clean-up supplies. Some models include a compartment for storage and transport of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). First Voice is the only SET manufacturer, leading the way to a new generation of smart first aid devices and tools. Back to top
Why do I need an EID or SET System?
In a medical emergency, 4 minutes can be the difference between life and death.
Yet, 911 response times average 10-12 minutes in urban areas and significantly more in remote locations. What’s more, professional response teams and 911 dispatch centers are increasingly overloaded with calls. The people first at the scene of an emergency are in a key position to make a difference – but even individuals with first aid training often freeze because of panic, fear of doing the wrong thing, or concerns about liability.
EIDs and SETs provide reassuring coaching, reliable instructions, and Good Samaritan reminders to overcome these barriers. When someone needs help, First Voice lets you make every minute count until advanced care takes over. Back to top
What do you mean when you say the SET system is “interactive?”
Once the First Voice SET is activated, the voice unit employs a series of yes/no prompts to coach the responder through the assessment of an injury. Based on one-touch responses about the injury and victim, the unit provides treatment protocols uniquely tailored to the nature and severity of the injury and to the needs of adults, children, infants, and pregnant women. For example, the burn button provides specific instructions for thermal (fire, heat, steam, and liquid), chemical, electrical, and flash burns. What are the advantages of First Voice EIDs over other devices on the market?
First Voice offers the most comprehensive EIDs available today. Ours are the only EIDS with:
- Instructions for over 30 emergencies
- Two levels of first aid/CPR protocols
~ Lay Rescuer
~Certified Healthcare Provider
- Multiple injury prioritization
- Upgradeable capability for protocol changes
- LCD screen to reinforce voice prompts
- Availability of a SET system Back to top
What kinds of emergencies are covered by First Voice?
The touchpad on the EID contains 12 buttons corresponding to different emergency categories. Within each of these categories are instructions for specific incidents, such as:
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding emergencies
- Bites and stings
- Bone/sprain injuries
- Breathing emergencies
- Burns
- Heart attack and stroke
- CPR for adults, children, infants, and newborns (Includes pacing of compressions and integration with AED)
- Choking emergencies (adult/child, infant, obese/pregnant)
- Diabetic emergencies
- Eye injuries
- Heat illness and overexertion
- Hypothermia and frostbite
- Near-drowning incidents
- Poisoning emergencies
- Seizure emergencies
- Shock
- Spinal injuries
In addition, when a victim has multiple injuries, First Voice assists the responder in assessing injuries and prioritizing care. Back to top
How does First Voice work?
When an emergency button is pressed on the touchpad, the EID asks a series of questions about the emergency. Users press Yes or No in response to the questions. Based on this input, the software powering the EID delivers instructions tailored to the specific nature of the situation. The EID coaches the user through such things as scene safety, checking for consciousness, personal protection, first aid protocols, and when and how to use the supplies in the SET.
For example, if the Seizure/Diabetic button is pressed, First Voice will:
- ask whether the victim is conscious and breathing
- remind the responder to check for medical alert information
- describe the signs of diabetic emergency
- indicate when to call 911
- talk through the steps of offering a liquid source of sugar (or using the liquid glucose supplied with the SET system)
- discuss techniques for monitoring and caring for the victim until 911 arrives*
If the victim has a serious injury, such as severe bleeding, First Voice will:
- advise you to check the scene for safety and put on personal protective supplies
- address the possibility of head/neck/spine injury
- provide protocols for controlling bleeding, including the use of pressure points
- furnish instructions regarding supplies, such as gauze pads, cloth tape, ABD pads, and an optional clotting agent
- describe protocols for situations where an object is impaled in the wound
- provide instructions for preserving and transporting severed digits or tissue
- provide CPR protocols if the victim loses consciousness or stops breathing*
*partial list of instructions Back to top
Who should I use First Voice?
First Voice is designed for use by anyone. The touchpad is clearly organized and simple to use. Of course, for ultimate emergency readiness, prior training in first aid and CPR is recommended. In addition, many organizations have emergency response plans, which designate individuals responsible for using First Voice and other emergency equipment, such as defibrillators. Back to top
Where would I expect to see First Voice?
You’ll find our EIDs and SET systems in a variety of environments, including:
- Corporate and industrial settings
- High-risk and remote areas
- Community centers and churches
- Camps and parks
- Schools and childcare centers
- Health care facilities and sporting events
- Marine environments
- First responder and law enforcement agencies Back to top
What about liability for people who use First Voice?
Good Samaritan laws generally protect rescuers acting in good faith by providing immunity from civil lawsuits in the event first aid is unsuccessful. In addition, First Voice includes references to obtaining permission before helping a victim.
It’s expected that use of First Voice will reduce liability by helping rescuers manage an emergency according to established treatment protocols, rather than providing inappropriate care or doing nothing at all. Back to top
How do I use First Voice for training?
First Voice helps to overcome the retention issues associated with conventional classroom instruction. Our EIDs deliver just-in-time refresher training, and our product mix provides hybrid resources to strengthen learning.
- Away from the scene, the EID can be used for training anytime – both for initial first aid/CPR training and scenario-based skill refreshment.
- Our ResQr First Aid & CPR Coach software can also be loaded onto a computer and projected onto a screen for classroom instruction.
- In addition, we offer First Voice online education available from any computer at any time. These courses provide training in the use of our equipment and first aid/CPR protocols, accompanied by quick self-tests to assess knowledge.
- Finally, our SET systems include a First Voice Responder's Handbook as another training resource and reference tool. Back to top
Where did First Voice obtain the emergency protocols?
The EID protocols conform to guidelines set by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, and Department of Homeland Security. Our copyright-protected protocols are similar to those used by 9-1-1 providers and are approved by medical directors. Back to top
How long does it take to run through each protocol so that I can get down to business and treat the injury?
The creators of First Voice designed the software to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. The interactive yes/no questions eliminate unnecessary information and provide only the protocols needed for the situation at hand. It generally takes 60-90 seconds to run through a specific protocol. During your demo, make sure you specifically review the CPR coaching provided by the EID. Back to top
Do I need to buy supplies from First Voice?
No. You can purchase the EID and/or software without the supplies. Back to top
What’s the advantage to buying supplies from First Voice?
Each First Voice SET system comes stocked with prepackaged supplies, organized and color-coded to the corresponding emergency. The EID tells you when and how to use the supplies in each pack. Supplies range from splints and wound dressing supplies to protective equipment. Only non-latex supplies are available, as are upgraded supplies, such as clotting solutions and burn dressing kits. Because we buy in bulk from wholesale suppliers, we’re able to pass on cost-savings to you.
Our patent-pending AmpuSave™ pack is included with each system. AmpuSave is the only product of its kind that provides supplies needed for the preservation and transport of amputated digits, fingers, toes, or tissue in one package.
In addition, we make it easy to restock your supplies. Our inventory management system lets you track what you’ve used and what you need.By simply calling your distributor you can restock your system so that it is complete and ready-to-go quickly again. We also provide state mandate advice on how to comply with civil liability immunity protection laws for AEDs and first aid equipment (for the workplace); COMPLIMENTARY – for no charge. Back to top
What should I look for when considering an EID?
To get the most value when purchasing an EID, consider the following:
- Ability to integrate into a SET system for response
- Number and types of emergencies covered
- Multiple injury capability
- Training available for equipment
- Cost
- Ease of updating protocols
- Suitability for bad weather or blood-borne contaminated environments Back to top
Is special training available for the First Voice system?
Although First Voice is highly intuitive and may be used by anyone at the scene, additional training in use of the equipment and basic life support protocols is highly recommended. Online first Aid and CPR or other emergency training may be purchased from one of our distributors. We encourage training as it is a key to preparedness. Our in-field reps and distributors do have roll-out training they can provide for your staff training needs and new employee hires. Back to top
What happens if the treatment protocols change (as they did in 2005)?
First Voice is fully updatable via an accessible media card port that allows for quick and easy configuration or protocol updates. These cards are available for only $29 LIST or you may purchase an annual maintenance agreement from your local distributor, allowing for free anytime protocol updates at no charge. Back to top
Is the First Voice EID available in other languages?
The First Voice EID is multilingual and comes standard in English and Spanish with customization of other languages available for bulk volumes. As additional languages are added we’ll update the website to announce the upgrades. Back to top
How is the system powered?
The EID runs on 3 “AA” cell alkaline batteries, and an automatic self-test is completed continually for low battery. Back to top
How does the system work under adverse conditions, such as high noise, night, or rain?
First Voice systems are designed for just these kinds of worst-case scenarios. In terms of night or low-light environments, most EIDs come with a backlit membrane switch and pen light. First Voice™ is splash-proof and water-resistant. We also offer clear protective coverings for the EID, water-tight models, and a variety of durable cases. Back to top
We already have an AED, so why do we need this?
If you have an AED, you’re off to a good start. However, AEDs cover one kind of cardiac emergency and are not always suitable for use with children and infants. In addition, only 17% of workplace injuries are cardiac-related. First Voice covers all major and minor first aid emergencies that result in ER vistis and hospitalizations. Back to top
Can I purchase an AED with my SET System?
Yes, we offer complete solutions including the lowest cost of ownership, lightest weight and most rugged AED on the market at discount prices. All First Voice SET systems have AED pockets or attachments that allow for clear viewing of the device’s active status. Back to top
What kind of pricing are we talking about?
The First Voice EID has an MSRP of $249 without any accessories. Pricing for the SET systems range from the high-$100’s to mid $1000 range, depending on the size of the EID, quantity of supplies, if an AED is included, type of case/bag, and level of water resistance and durability required. Back to top
Can I purchase individual pieces of the SET system?
Yes we provide a flexible mix of products and services so you can purchase the pieces that are right for you. From downloading our ResQr First Aid & CPR Coach software onto your existing hardware to purchasing our EID or cases, we’re committed to helping you get exactly what you need. Back to top
We’re a non-profit organization in the middle of some budget-tightening. Any ideas on how we can pay for this?
A variety of grants are available to fund the purchase of First Voice. In addition, we offer grant-finding and grant-writing services for volunteer fire, EMS, camps, schools, and other organizations. Fundraising options and leasing are also available. Back to top
Will purchasing First Voice products help lower our insurance premiums?
Each insurance company handles these requests individually, but the potential for premium reduction does exist. Many of our customers enjoy significant insurance credits after purchasing a system. Contact us for specific information about available discounts. Back to top
We provide first response to a widespread area. How many of these systems do I need?
A good rule of thumb is that a SET system is recommended in any location more than four minutes away from advanced medical care. In large facilities, several SET systems may be needed to ensure adequate coverage. Basically, wherever you have an AED or response kit, you need an SET or EID. Back to top
Does First Voice come with a warranty?
Think Safe Inc., the manufacturer of First Voice products, warrants the physical EID to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal operating conditions for a period of three years from the date of purchase. Back to top
Where can I obtain more information about or place an order for First Voice?
Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you or put you in touch with a distributor. Back to top
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EID?
EID stands for Emergency Instruction Device, a smart device that provides interactive voice instructions to talk users through medical emergencies. An EID reduces the “panic factor” that accompanies traumatic situations and enables anyone at the scene to take quick and decisive action until professional help arrives. It’s also a flexible tool for first aid training. Back to top
What is a SET System?
SET stands for Self-Contained Emergency Treatment (SET) system, a comprehensive system for first aid training and emergency response. SETs organize everything needed for response in one convenient kit – an EID, prepackaged supplies color-coded to the trauma buttons on the EID, personal safety and scene clean-up supplies. Some models include a compartment for storage and transport of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). First Voice is the only SET manufacturer, leading the way to a new generation of smart first aid devices and tools. Back to top
Why do I need an EID or SET System?
In a medical emergency, 4 minutes can be the difference between life and death.
Yet, 911 response times average 10-12 minutes in urban areas and significantly more in remote locations. What’s more, professional response teams and 911 dispatch centers are increasingly overloaded with calls. The people first at the scene of an emergency are in a key position to make a difference – but even individuals with first aid training often freeze because of panic, fear of doing the wrong thing, or concerns about liability.
EIDs and SETs provide reassuring coaching, reliable instructions, and Good Samaritan reminders to overcome these barriers. When someone needs help, First Voice lets you make every minute count until advanced care takes over. Back to top
What do you mean when you say the SET system is “interactive?”
Once the First Voice SET is activated, the voice unit employs a series of yes/no prompts to coach the responder through the assessment of an injury. Based on one-touch responses about the injury and victim, the unit provides treatment protocols uniquely tailored to the nature and severity of the injury and to the needs of adults, children, infants, and pregnant women. For example, the burn button provides specific instructions for thermal (fire, heat, steam, and liquid), chemical, electrical, and flash burns. What are the advantages of First Voice EIDs over other devices on the market?
First Voice offers the most comprehensive EIDs available today. Ours are the only EIDS with:
- Instructions for over 30 emergencies
- Two levels of first aid/CPR protocols
~ Lay Rescuer
~Certified Healthcare Provider
- Multiple injury prioritization
- Upgradeable capability for protocol changes
- LCD screen to reinforce voice prompts
- Availability of a SET system Back to top
What kinds of emergencies are covered by First Voice?
The touchpad on the EID contains 12 buttons corresponding to different emergency categories. Within each of these categories are instructions for specific incidents, such as:
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding emergencies
- Bites and stings
- Bone/sprain injuries
- Breathing emergencies
- Burns
- Heart attack and stroke
- CPR for adults, children, infants, and newborns (Includes pacing of compressions and integration with AED)
- Choking emergencies (adult/child, infant, obese/pregnant)
- Diabetic emergencies
- Eye injuries
- Heat illness and overexertion
- Hypothermia and frostbite
- Near-drowning incidents
- Poisoning emergencies
- Seizure emergencies
- Shock
- Spinal injuries
In addition, when a victim has multiple injuries, First Voice assists the responder in assessing injuries and prioritizing care. Back to top
How does First Voice work?
When an emergency button is pressed on the touchpad, the EID asks a series of questions about the emergency. Users press Yes or No in response to the questions. Based on this input, the software powering the EID delivers instructions tailored to the specific nature of the situation. The EID coaches the user through such things as scene safety, checking for consciousness, personal protection, first aid protocols, and when and how to use the supplies in the SET.
For example, if the Seizure/Diabetic button is pressed, First Voice will:
- ask whether the victim is conscious and breathing
- remind the responder to check for medical alert information
- describe the signs of diabetic emergency
- indicate when to call 911
- talk through the steps of offering a liquid source of sugar (or using the liquid glucose supplied with the SET system)
- discuss techniques for monitoring and caring for the victim until 911 arrives*
If the victim has a serious injury, such as severe bleeding, First Voice will:
- advise you to check the scene for safety and put on personal protective supplies
- address the possibility of head/neck/spine injury
- provide protocols for controlling bleeding, including the use of pressure points
- furnish instructions regarding supplies, such as gauze pads, cloth tape, ABD pads, and an optional clotting agent
- describe protocols for situations where an object is impaled in the wound
- provide instructions for preserving and transporting severed digits or tissue
- provide CPR protocols if the victim loses consciousness or stops breathing*
*partial list of instructions Back to top
Who should I use First Voice?
First Voice is designed for use by anyone. The touchpad is clearly organized and simple to use. Of course, for ultimate emergency readiness, prior training in first aid and CPR is recommended. In addition, many organizations have emergency response plans, which designate individuals responsible for using First Voice and other emergency equipment, such as defibrillators. Back to top
Where would I expect to see First Voice?
You’ll find our EIDs and SET systems in a variety of environments, including:
- Corporate and industrial settings
- High-risk and remote areas
- Community centers and churches
- Camps and parks
- Schools and childcare centers
- Health care facilities and sporting events
- Marine environments
- First responder and law enforcement agencies Back to top
What about liability for people who use First Voice?
Good Samaritan laws generally protect rescuers acting in good faith by providing immunity from civil lawsuits in the event first aid is unsuccessful. In addition, First Voice includes references to obtaining permission before helping a victim.
It’s expected that use of First Voice will reduce liability by helping rescuers manage an emergency according to established treatment protocols, rather than providing inappropriate care or doing nothing at all. Back to top
How do I use First Voice for training?
First Voice helps to overcome the retention issues associated with conventional classroom instruction. Our EIDs deliver just-in-time refresher training, and our product mix provides hybrid resources to strengthen learning.
- Away from the scene, the EID can be used for training anytime – both for initial first aid/CPR training and scenario-based skill refreshment.
- Our ResQr First Aid & CPR Coach software can also be loaded onto a computer and projected onto a screen for classroom instruction.
- In addition, we offer First Voice online education available from any computer at any time. These courses provide training in the use of our equipment and first aid/CPR protocols, accompanied by quick self-tests to assess knowledge.
- Finally, our SET systems include a First Voice Responder's Handbook as another training resource and reference tool. Back to top
Where did First Voice obtain the emergency protocols?
The EID protocols conform to guidelines set by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, and Department of Homeland Security. Our copyright-protected protocols are similar to those used by 9-1-1 providers and are approved by medical directors. Back to top
How long does it take to run through each protocol so that I can get down to business and treat the injury?
The creators of First Voice designed the software to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. The interactive yes/no questions eliminate unnecessary information and provide only the protocols needed for the situation at hand. It generally takes 60-90 seconds to run through a specific protocol. During your demo, make sure you specifically review the CPR coaching provided by the EID. Back to top
Do I need to buy supplies from First Voice?
No. You can purchase the EID and/or software without the supplies. Back to top
What’s the advantage to buying supplies from First Voice?
Each First Voice SET system comes stocked with prepackaged supplies, organized and color-coded to the corresponding emergency. The EID tells you when and how to use the supplies in each pack. Supplies range from splints and wound dressing supplies to protective equipment. Only non-latex supplies are available, as are upgraded supplies, such as clotting solutions and burn dressing kits. Because we buy in bulk from wholesale suppliers, we’re able to pass on cost-savings to you.
Our patent-pending AmpuSave™ pack is included with each system. AmpuSave is the only product of its kind that provides supplies needed for the preservation and transport of amputated digits, fingers, toes, or tissue in one package.
In addition, we make it easy to restock your supplies. Our inventory management system lets you track what you’ve used and what you need.By simply calling your distributor you can restock your system so that it is complete and ready-to-go quickly again. We also provide state mandate advice on how to comply with civil liability immunity protection laws for AEDs and first aid equipment (for the workplace); COMPLIMENTARY – for no charge. Back to top
What should I look for when considering an EID?
To get the most value when purchasing an EID, consider the following:
- Ability to integrate into a SET system for response
- Number and types of emergencies covered
- Multiple injury capability
- Training available for equipment
- Cost
- Ease of updating protocols
- Suitability for bad weather or blood-borne contaminated environments Back to top
Is special training available for the First Voice system?
Although First Voice is highly intuitive and may be used by anyone at the scene, additional training in use of the equipment and basic life support protocols is highly recommended. Online first Aid and CPR or other emergency training may be purchased from one of our distributors. We encourage training as it is a key to preparedness. Our in-field reps and distributors do have roll-out training they can provide for your staff training needs and new employee hires. Back to top
What happens if the treatment protocols change (as they did in 2005)?
First Voice is fully updatable via an accessible media card port that allows for quick and easy configuration or protocol updates. These cards are available for only $29 LIST or you may purchase an annual maintenance agreement from your local distributor, allowing for free anytime protocol updates at no charge. Back to top
Is the First Voice EID available in other languages?
The First Voice EID is multilingual and comes standard in English and Spanish with customization of other languages available for bulk volumes. As additional languages are added we’ll update the website to announce the upgrades. Back to top
How is the system powered?
The EID runs on 3 “AA” cell alkaline batteries, and an automatic self-test is completed continually for low battery. Back to top
How does the system work under adverse conditions, such as high noise, night, or rain?
First Voice systems are designed for just these kinds of worst-case scenarios. In terms of night or low-light environments, most EIDs come with a backlit membrane switch and pen light. First Voice™ is splash-proof and water-resistant. We also offer clear protective coverings for the EID, water-tight models, and a variety of durable cases. Back to top
We already have an AED, so why do we need this?
If you have an AED, you’re off to a good start. However, AEDs cover one kind of cardiac emergency and are not always suitable for use with children and infants. In addition, only 17% of workplace injuries are cardiac-related. First Voice covers all major and minor first aid emergencies that result in ER vistis and hospitalizations. Back to top
Can I purchase an AED with my SET System?
Yes, we offer complete solutions including the lowest cost of ownership, lightest weight and most rugged AED on the market at discount prices. All First Voice SET systems have AED pockets or attachments that allow for clear viewing of the device’s active status. Back to top
What kind of pricing are we talking about?
The First Voice EID has an MSRP of $249 without any accessories. Pricing for the SET systems range from the high-$100’s to mid $1000 range, depending on the size of the EID, quantity of supplies, if an AED is included, type of case/bag, and level of water resistance and durability required. Back to top
Can I purchase individual pieces of the SET system?
Yes we provide a flexible mix of products and services so you can purchase the pieces that are right for you. From downloading our ResQr First Aid & CPR Coach software onto your existing hardware to purchasing our EID or cases, we’re committed to helping you get exactly what you need. Back to top
We’re a non-profit organization in the middle of some budget-tightening. Any ideas on how we can pay for this?
A variety of grants are available to fund the purchase of First Voice. In addition, we offer grant-finding and grant-writing services for volunteer fire, EMS, camps, schools, and other organizations. Fundraising options and leasing are also available. Back to top
Will purchasing First Voice products help lower our insurance premiums?
Each insurance company handles these requests individually, but the potential for premium reduction does exist. Many of our customers enjoy significant insurance credits after purchasing a system. Contact us for specific information about available discounts. Back to top
We provide first response to a widespread area. How many of these systems do I need?
A good rule of thumb is that a SET system is recommended in any location more than four minutes away from advanced medical care. In large facilities, several SET systems may be needed to ensure adequate coverage. Basically, wherever you have an AED or response kit, you need an SET or EID. Back to top
Does First Voice come with a warranty?
Think Safe Inc., the manufacturer of First Voice products, warrants the physical EID to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal operating conditions for a period of three years from the date of purchase. Back to top
Where can I obtain more information about or place an order for First Voice?
Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you or put you in touch with a distributor. Back to top