• Why should my organization use photo ID's?
  In this age of increased security that we live in, having photo identification on the scene of emergencies in crucial.
  The scene of major incidents require the use of many different agencies crossing jurisdiction lines, which can cause confusion among personnel.  Wearing photo identification will help you differentiate between different levels of training and different organizations.  My county has developed a color code system making it easy to tell the difference between a EMT-Paramedic and an EMT-Basic.
  It also provides a level of security, allowing your personnel to manage who enters and leaves a scene.
  Also, many hospitals now require some form of photo identification for access in their facilities.
  The Department of Homeland Security has issued similar cards called FRAC cards (First Responder Authentication Credential) in an effort to maintain security at the scene of major incidents.  Some locations in the country are already using them and have found them to be effective.  While our cards are not as high-tech as the FRAC, the same principle applies for all levels of emergency management and response.

 

• Why should I buy from you?
  Small organizations will benefit financially from buying our cards rather than purchasing equipment to print them yourselves.  This equipment can cost many thousands of dollars.  Our cards are high quality and printed using state of the art Datacard thermal printers.
  You purchase will help fund Pipers Gap Rescue Squad, which is a non-profit, all volunteer organization. 
  All proceeds will go directly to the rescue squad.

 

• What size are the ID Cards?
  The cards are a standard CR-80, which is the same size and thickness as a credit card.  They are made of PVC plastic and are very durable.  After every card is printed, it is top-coated with a clear protective coating that will increase their life.
  Here are some specs:
  Standard CR80.030 (CR8030) size, 30 mil PVC
  3.375" x 2.125" (credit card size)
  Superior graphic quality cards

 

• What is the best way to take the pictures?
  Use a digital camera to avoid scanning fees (see pricing)
  The photos of your personnel should include the shoulders.  Do not zoom all the way in on the face.  We will crop the photo to the appropriate size, but cannot do this if it is zoomed in too far.
  A bright white background, such as a white sheet hung on a wall will provide the best photo for the cards.  Please use your flash.
  Rename your photo files to the name of the person in the photo.  The file name should include the department number if you wish to include this on the card.  If you need help renaming files, we are glad to help.

 

• How do we get the pictures to you?
  The photos can be emailed to us or placed on a CD or flash drive and mailed. 
  Large numbers of pictures or large file sizes might be easier to mail, rather than email.

 

• Are you able to produce magnetic striping or other "smart" cards?
  No.  At this time, we are not able to offer smart card technology. 
  We are looking into producing magnetic striping and may have this ability soon.

 

Feel free to contact us with any other questions you might have!