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Va. paramedic’s ‘COLT Kit’ helps first responders connect with sensory-sensitive patients

Inspired by her 4-year-old with autism, Virginia Beach Paramedic Bailey Hartley’s kits equip crews with sensory tools to cut overload and improve communication

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A Virginia Beach paramedic and mother is reshaping how first responders approach patients with sensory sensitivities. Paramedic Bailey Hartley created the “COLT Kit,” named for her 4-year-old son, who has autism.

The COLT Kit helps first responders better communicate with people who have sensory sensitivities. For patients like Hartley’s son, loud sirens and flashing lights can be overwhelming, making assessment and information-gathering harder during emergencies, 13 News Now reported.

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“When I became a special needs mom, I kind of noticed there was a communication gap between our first responders and treating patients,” Hartley said. “Giving them the tools that they need to communicate really helps us with our assessment and treatment so we can make sure they are getting treated appropriately.”

Each kit includes sensory toys, fidget items, noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses and a dry-erase board to aid nonverbal communication. Implemented in August, the COLT Kits are already being used by Virginia Beach EMS on emergency calls.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.