BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Central Vermont is taking steps to serve people in crisis as well as the first responders there to help.
Both Barre City and Montpelier fire departments now provide sensory bags for firefighters and EMTs.
Sensory bags include things like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, fidget items, and calming visuals to help people regulate emotions and control stress.
The bags are helpful in response to people with autism or mental health challenges.
The program is a partnership with Washington County Mental Health Services.