When Every Second Counts
Technology Speaks

Modern tech tools “speak” for you in emergencies – ideal for language barriers or when you can’t physically communicate during anaphylaxis. This section covers using smartphone apps and devices to pre-load life-saving phrases (“I need epinephrine,” “I have a peanut allergy”) in local languages. Tips include saving translations offline, utilizing features like Apple Watch SOS, and even using Google Maps to find nearby hospitals. By embracing these innovations, travelers with food allergies gain confidence that if an allergic reaction hits, technology can help summon help instantly.

Technology has transformed emergency communication, particularly for travelers with life-threatening food allergy conditions. For individuals with food allergies, language barriers can be deadly. However, innovative solutions enable users to proactively prepare in advance and save critical phrases on their smartphones.

In emergency situations, such as anaphylactic shock, every second counts. Apps and devices can swiftly convey vital information, like “I have a food allergy” or “I need epinephrine.” or “Call an ambulance.” Technology facilitates swift understanding and response.

Travelers can pre-load phrases in local languages, ensuring they can alert others to their condition. For example:

  • “I am allergic to peanuts/nuts/gluten.”
  • “I need medical attention immediately.”
  • “Where is the nearest hospital?”

Technology empowers individuals with food allergies to navigate foreign countries with greater confidence. In the event of anaphylactic shock, rapid communication in the language of the country can mean the difference between life and death.

Google Maps:

You can also use Google Maps to find hospitals near your address. To do this, just type your address into the search bar and then add “hospitals” to your search. For example, if you live at 123 Main Street, you would type “123 Main Street, hospitals” into the search bar

Apple Watch:

Apple’s best tool for world travelers (see article)

Google Translate with saved audio files:

Google Translate mobile app (download) is instant camera translation. Works without internet.

Google Translate App:

  1. Go to Google Translate: Visit https://translate.google.com/.
  2. Enter the Phrase: Type the phrase you want to translate into the text box. Avoid using names of allergens
  3. Select Languages: Choose the source and target languages.
  4. Listen to the Translation: Click the speaker icon to hear the translated phrase spoken aloud.
  5. Record the Audio: Use a screen recorder to capture the sound of the spoken translation. Popular options include:
    • Windows: Use the Xbox Game Bar (press Win + G).
    • macOS: Use QuickTime Player.
    • ChromeOS: Use the built-in Screen Recorder (accessible from the Quick Settings menu).
  6. Built-in Screen Recorders Save the Audio: Once you’ve finished recording, save the file as an audio format like MP3 or WAV.

Save As a Contact Named the Phase

  • Save the Audio File: After recording the audio, save it to a specific folder (e.g., “Downloads” or “Audio”).
  • Open Files: Launch the Files app.Rename the File: Right-click on the audio file and select “Rename.”
  • Add Contact Name: Give the file a name that includes the contact’s name. For example, if the contact is “John Doe,” you could name the file “John Doe – Translated Phrase.”
  • Organize with Folders: If you have multiple audio files for different contacts, consider creating separate folders for each contact to keep them organized.

By leveraging technology, those with food allergies can travel safer, knowing they can quickly convey their needs in any language.