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.

| READ NEXT: The hidden challenges of sensory processing disorders in the field

“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 comm

See Full Page