Training emergency responders to handle extreme heat using virtual simulations
Official title: SoftWorthy's Interactive Virtual Environment Laboratory to support Health and Safety Training of Emergency Responders Exposed to Extreme Ambient Temperatures (SWIVEL-HASTE)
Funded at Softworthy LLC · NIH-11126916 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a fun virtual reality training program to help emergency responders learn how to stay safe and healthy when dealing with extreme temperatures, so they can practice real-life situations in a safe and engaging way.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Softworthy LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | June 18, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $100,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R43ES037460-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126916 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include emergency responders and personnel who work in environments prone to extreme temperatures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in emergency response or do not work in high-temperature environments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research develops an innovative simulator that uses virtual reality to train emergency responders on health and safety protocols related to extreme ambient temperatures. By employing serious-gaming techniques, the program enhances learning through interactive experiences, allowing responders to practice real-life scenarios in a safe environment. The training focuses on experiential learning, moving from theoretical knowledge to practical application, thereby improving knowledge retention and self-efficacy. The simulator combines advanced thermoregulatory models and multimedia visualization to create personalized training scenarios.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the preparedness and safety of emergency responders facing extreme heat conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that simulation-based training can effectively enhance learning outcomes in emergency response scenarios, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Softworthy LLC
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kewlani, Gaurav — Softworthy LLC
- Study coordinator: Kewlani, Gaurav
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.