Border Crossing Regulations & Fast Track Medical Response System New for ISMA in 2008
Oswego, NY — The New Yorkers reading this will probably already be aware of the border crossing requirements that currently are in effect, as of Feb. 1, but anyone who will be crossing into Canada a couple times this season for ISMA events should take heed.
People entering the country will no longer be allowed to simply declare to immigration officers at border crossings that they are citizens. Instead, those 19 and older will have to show proof of citizenship — a passport, trusted traveler card or a birth certificate (embossed) and government-issued ID such as a driver’s license.” Research shows that the passport may not be needed entering from some other states like Ohio or Vermont until later in the year or into 2009. Apparently some states have delayed the stricter requirements. Not so in New York, however. So be safe, not sorry, by looking into it now, not later in the year.
Fast Track Medical Response System (www.fasttrackmrs.com) bracelets will be available to ISMA competitors, crews, and officials in 2008. Information will be forthcoming on the details of the system and how to sign up. The idea came to light when Thompson Int’l Speedway began using the program last season. In an October 2007 article sent out by TIS PR, the system received positive results. According to a news article, “The Fast Track Medical Response System was implemented during the early stages of the 2007 racing season in an effort to greatly enhance the ability to provide medical services to competitors, race team members and employees at Thompson. Thompson International Speedway was the first racetrack to adopt the Fast Track Medical Response System. The Fast Track system is designed around a lightweight bracelet that contains a tiny computer chip. This computer chip contains vital medical information on the person wearing it. In the event that medical assistance is needed, a quick scan of the bracelet provides first responders with valuable medical information in seconds. If the patient is transported to a medical facility, this same information is immediately available to the medical staff at the receiving facility.
“Participation in the program at Thompson was voluntary. Nearly 100% of those offered the service immediately and enthusiastically expressed their interest and support. Each participant was asked to complete a simple form containing important medical and contact information. That data was then burned into the computer chip that was placed inside the bracelet and given to the participant.
“The success of the Fast Track Medical Response System at Thompson International Speedway has helped to spark interest world-wide. Racing organizations such as ARCA, ISMA, IHRA, World of Outlaws and the entire Australian Motorsports community are expected to implement the system.
“The value of the Fast Track Medical Response System proved to be a valuable asset at the Thompson International Speedway and will do the same in any environment where the potential for emergency medical services exists.”
It is hoped that not only drivers, but also crews and personnel will take advantage of this potentially life-saving system. The advantages to a traveling organization such as ISMA are limitless.