The Norfolk Fire Division has adopted HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud technology on various emergency response units to improve public safety. By leveraging this platform, the division can send important alerts to nearby motorists regarding approaching emergency vehicles. This technology aims to reduce response times, minimize the risk of accidents, and ultimately save lives.
Assistant fire chief Trever O’Brien emphasized the city’s commitment to improving emergency response capabilities through the adoption of innovative technology. Since September, when the fire division began using HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud, the technology has notified drivers of approaching emergency vehicles over 17,000 times up until March. This vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication technology provides real-time alerts to motorists through connected vehicle systems and navigation applications. When emergency vehicles equipped with Safety Cloud are nearby, motorists receive immediate notifications to yield and allow the responding units to pass safely.
O’Brien expressed his gratitude for the technology, stating that it serves as a valuable tool to inform the public about approaching emergencies and the presence of emergency vehicles. He highlighted the importance of avoiding emergency areas and pulling over to the right and stopping when an emergency vehicle is approaching. O’Brien emphasized that drivers should not stop in roundabouts or intersections as responders may require access to these areas during emergencies. The Norfolk Fire Division looks forward to utilizing this technology in enhancing safety for both the public and emergency responders in the future.
