The Norfolk Fire Division has recently adopted HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud technology to improve public safety. By utilizing 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.
Since September, when the fire division started using Safety Cloud, the technology has notified drivers of approaching emergency vehicles over 17,000 times up to the end of March. The 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.
Assistant fire chief Trever O’Brien emphasized the city’s dedication to improving emergency response capabilities through the adoption of innovative technology. He expressed 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. O’Brien highlighted the importance of avoiding emergency areas and pulling over to the right and stopping when an emergency vehicle is approaching. He 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.