Photo supplied by the Municipality of Central Elgin
Central Elgin Fire Rescue is adding a new tool to its emergency response equipment, designed to help residents who may experience sensory overload or have difficulty communicating during an emergency.
The department has received four Sensory Support Kits through a private donation. The kits were designed and built by the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council in partnership with Autism Canada.
Each kit includes items such as noise-cancelling earmuffs, tinted safety glasses, fidget tools, a plush firefighter bear and non-verbal communication aids.
The equipment is intended to give firefighters additional ways to provide comfort and support when someone is feeling overwhelmed during an emergency.
For residents experiencing sensory sensitivities, an emergency can be particularly challenging, with loud sirens, flashing lights, unfamiliar surroundings, and large numbers of people potentially adding to the stress of the situation.
The new kits give Central Elgin firefighters another way to help create a calmer environment and support communication while they focus on keeping people safe.
The municipality says the donation highlights how relatively small tools can make a meaningful difference for people during some of the most stressful moments they may experience.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
