By Daily Freeman
KINGSTON, N.Y. — The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services will distribute Autism Preparedness Bags for every ambulance to support emergency responses for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, the county announced.
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger’s office said in a press release on Thursday, May 21, that each Autism Preparedness Bag includes “tools designed to support communication, reduce sensory overload, and help create a calmer, more controlled interaction during emergencies.”
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The kits include noise‑reduction earmuffs, a dry‑erase board with a marker, sunglasses, a comfort stuffed animal, and tactile and sensory‑regulation items for responders to use to adapt their approach in the field to improve outcomes for both the individual in crisis and emergency personnel, Metzger’s office added.
The kits offer first responders “improved ability to engage with nonverbal or sensory-sensitive individuals, tools to reduce anxiety and prevent escalation and enhanced situational awareness during complex calls,” officials said in the release.
Metzger’s office added that the program benefits families and caregivers by providing “reassurance that responders arriving on scene are equipped not just to act, but to understand.”
The kits were inspired by the work of 9-year-old Virginia resident Ledger Greyson Mann. A child with autism, Mann used his own savings to create emergency kits for first responders after realizing how overwhelming emergencies can be for people like himself, Metzger’s office said.
“Ledger’s efforts have helped spark similar programs elsewhere,” county officials said in the release, including here in Ulster County, reflecting a growing nationwide recognition that traditional emergency response approaches do not always meet the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.”
Metzger also said in the release that she was delighted to speak with Ledger about his efforts via Zoom video conference and share how his idea helped shape Ulster County’s approach to emergency response.
“His leadership at such a young age is truly inspiring, and his idea has sparked programs across the country, including right here in Ulster County,” Metzger said in the release. “In emergency situations, this initiative will help create a calmer, safer, and more supportive experience for individuals with autism and their families.”
Everett Erichsen, Ulster County’s commissioner of emergency services, said in the release, “Emergency scenes can be overwhelming and unpredictable, particularly for individuals with autism or sensory processing challenges. This program ensures our responders are better prepared to recognize those challenges, adjust their approach, and safely de-escalate situations when every second matters.”
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