Thompson Valley EMS Adds Sensory Kits to All Ambulances for Inclusive Emergency Care

Thompson Valley Emergency Medical Services (TVEMS) in Colorado has become the first EMS agency in the state to equip all its vehicles and offices with sensory kits developed in collaboration with the nonprofit KultureCity. These kits, containing noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget tools, and visual communication aids, are designed to help patients with sensory sensitivities, including those on the autism spectrum and people with invisible disabilities, manage overwhelming stimuli during emergencies. The initiative was inspired by Battalion Chief Dave Edwards’ personal experience with his autistic daughter, who found relief using a sensory kit during a Cirque du Soleil performance. TVEMS personnel are trained to recognize sensory overload responses and use the kits to calm patients, aiming to reduce stress caused by sirens, flashing lights, and chaotic emergency scenes. Similarly, sensory kits will also be available for fans during the College World Series at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, offering noise-canceling headphones and other tools to create a more inclusive experience for individuals with autism. These programs highlight growing awareness and efforts to accommodate sensory processing needs in both emergency services and public events.