‘Sensory support kits’ now in the hands of Ontario first responders

Reducing stress while providing more compassionate care during emergencies is behind a province-wide initiative to get sensory support kits into the hands of firefighters and other first responders.

More than 200 First Responder Sensory Support Kits have been distributed to fire departments across Ontario, with each kit containing practical tools designed to reduce stress, improve communication, and create more positive interactions during emergency responses.

Developed in partnership with Autism Canada, the kits are designed to help firefighters better support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities during emergency situations.

The kits provide firefighters with additional resources to better support individuals experiencing sensory overload or communication challenges.

“Every emergency is different, and every person we serve has unique needs,” explained Scugog Fire Chief Mike Matthews. “These Sensory Support Kits will help our firefighters provide more inclusive and compassionate care while reducing stress for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families. “

Residents who have special needs or a disability that may require additional assistance or know someone who does are encouraged to complete a Person(s) Requiring Assistance form. This information helps firefighters better prepare to meet individual needs when responding to an emergency.

Woodbridge-based North City Insurance Brokers provided the funds for the program, which was facilitated by the Ontario Fire Marshall’s Public Fire Safety Council and supports more inclusive, accessible, and person-centred emergency response across Ontario.

“We are grateful to the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council, Autism Canada and North City Insurance Brokers for making these valuable resources available to fire departments across Ontario.” Matthews said.