No kidding! This “killer app” really could be a lifesaver. WISER (Wireless Information System for Emergency Responders) is a PDA application for individuals who respond to hazardous materials incidents. The National Library of Medicine developed this resource to assist first responders in identifying unknown substances, protecting themselves and containment of contaminants.

I took WISER for a test drive and was favorably impressed. The download was quick and easy. (The site does indicate a size issue with Tungsten and Treo models, but I used the memory card on my older Palm with no problems.) I began by testing the software's Identifying Unknown Substances feature. I conjured up a Tabun (nerve gas) exposure. WISER immediately informed me that my victim and I were in big trouble. Thankfully, this was a figment of my imagination, so I had the ability to read on. WISER provides everything from physical and chemical properties to medical treatment and environmental clean-up.

WISER is available for both the Palm OS and the Pocket PC. WISER for Windows has just recently become available and the Web version should be released in a few months. The next step is to improve the PDA versions by creating a connected mode so the user can access the HSDB and other sources.

• Access the WISER Users' Guide -- Unlike some user guides, this document is definitely worth reading since the Identifying Unknown Substances feature is slightly tricky. Navigate to Page 11 which lists the data that WISER provides for each of the 390 substances in the database.
• Read NLM's product description -- This detailed description will definitely sell you on this free product. To appreciate the authority and scope of this product check out the FAQ, “Where does WISER data come from?”
• Download the PDA or desktop application