Fire dispatcher Chelsea Stevens shows Kurtis and Kya Oosterveld cards used for communication during a sensory-friendly event held recently by the Tillsonburg Fire Department. The no-sirens, no-lights, no-crowd event was designed for youth who are on the spectrum. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)
A recent gathering at the Tillsonburg Fire Department stood out from typical events: there were no flashing lights, no sirens, and no large crowds.
The sensory-friendly event took place on May 27 and featured displays from Oxford EMS and the OPP, which is common at fire department public functions. This first-time event required prior registration.
“It’s for those families that can’t attend our open houses because it’s crowded and loud; it’s a more quiet environment,” said Sarah Barclay, Public Educator with Tillsonburg Fire Department.
The idea for the evening came from a discussion with Kristen Parsons, daughter of former fire chief Bob Parsons. Her son is on the spectrum and found traditional fire department events uncomfortable.
The evening offered similar opportunities as usual events at the fire hall, allowing attendees to see fire trucks, an ambulance, and a police vehicle up close. A chance to climb into a fire truck was also part of the experience.
Barclay used this night to gather feedback on sensory support kits that will eventually be placed in all fire trucks. These kits include cards for communicating with non-verbal children, a stress ball, a fidget toy, headphones, sunglasses, and paper and pen for communication. The kit concept originated from former Tillsonburg resident Jamie Kovacs, who now serves as executive director of the Fire Safety Council. That group collaborated with Autism Canada to create the kit.
“I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to get feedback from families about what they think of the kit,” Barclay said.
She was pleased with how well-received the event was and plans to organize another one in the future.
Source link
