Carter Kits

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James Banhart, KC Scout TMC Supervisor, conducted a training on Tuesday, July 1 for a Carter Kit which is a sensory tool designed to assist first responders when handling incidents involving individuals with autism, particularly children. Two sessions were held to accommodate different shifts. Additional sessions will be scheduled to ensure that any Emergency Response Operators who were unavailable during the initial training have an opportunity to participate.

This idea originated after Banhart attended the Traffic and Safety Conference in Wichita, Kansas. During one of the breakout sessions, Banhart had the opportunity to speak with Mrs. Jessica Parker, the Program Coordinator for EMSC in the state of Kansas who shared what a Carter Kit is.

Many individuals are not equipped to accurately recognize when someone is on the autism spectrum. Enhancing this ability is a substantial benefit to all agencies involved. This training not only provides the tools to identify individuals with autism but also offers guidance on how to appropriately respond and potentially de-escalate situations that could otherwise become tense or unsafe. Banhart took the initiative to become a certified trainer through the Carter Kits organization. The training is free and accessible to anyone who wishes to participate.

“As the father of a 10-year-old autistic child, I recognized the value this tool could provide to our Emergency Response Operators (EROs) during emergency situations,” stated Banhart.

After presenting the concept to KC Scout Management, Banhart received support and was approved to purchase 15 Carter Kits for implementation.

To learn more about the Carter Kits organization, visit: Carter Kits - Home

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