The Norfolk Fire Division has integrated HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud technology into several of its emergency response units, allowing them to transmit important alerts about approaching emergency vehicles directly to nearby motorists. This adoption of innovative technology is part of the division’s effort to reduce response times, minimize the risk of accidents, and ultimately save lives. Assistant fire chief Trever O’Brien emphasized that this technology is a crucial aspect of the city’s commitment to improving public safety and emergency response capabilities.
Since September, when the fire division began using the Safety Cloud technology, it has successfully alerted drivers of approaching emergency vehicles 17,483 times. HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud utilizes vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication technology to send real-time alerts to motorists through connected vehicle systems and navigation applications. When emergency vehicles equipped with the Safety Cloud approach, nearby motorists receive instant notifications, allowing them to safely yield and make way for the responding units.
O’Brien highlighted the importance of this tool in keeping both the public and emergency responders safe during incidents. He stressed the need for motorists to be aware of approaching emergency vehicles and to yield appropriately. Urging drivers to avoid stopping in roundabouts or intersections, O’Brien emphasized the necessity of these areas for responders to access emergencies quickly and safely. The Norfolk Fire Division is optimistic that this technology will continue to be a valuable asset in improving overall safety and response efficiency for all parties involved.