Sensory Kits for EMS Use: COLT Kits
In my original discussion regarding the role of Caroline County Fire and Rescue in the community, I mentioned an importance for gaining trust in the community they serve. If the public needs to rely on Caroline's EMS in times of crisis, it's important that they’re able to provide comfort. COLT Kits Recently, I discovered an article about sensory kits in use by Virginia Beach EMS . Created by Bailey Hartley, these kits, named COLT Kits after her son, are used to help first responders communicate with and soothe those who have sensory issues. COLT also serves as an acronym. C ommunicate effectively, o bserve sensory needs, l ighten the overload, and t reat with patience. Those with sensory sensitivities, such as those with Autism, can find the loud sirens and flashing lights of an ambulance overwhelming. Not to mention that the incident that resulted in a call to EMS can be very intense to begin with. COLT Kits are meant to help solve these problems and allow EMS members to imp...