In an effort to reduce accidents and increase public safety while on the road, Pickering Fire Services is implementing HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud system, a digital alerting service designed to help protect emergency responders, motorists, and other road users.
The technology provides advance in-vehicle alerts to notify drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching, potentially before trucks are visible or their sirens can be heard. The system also alerts motorists when emergency vehicles are stopped at an incident and crews may be working nearby. These alerts give motorists up to 30 seconds of advance warning to slow down, move over, and exercise caution.
The system delivers alerts through several channels:
In-vehicle dashboard alerts (available in 2018 and newer Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles, as well as 2024 and newer Volkswagen vehicles).
Mobile alerts (available through supported navigation apps, including Waze and Apple Maps).
The first installation of the new system is now complete on Ladder 55, which is in service and actively responding from Station 5. A total of 12 trucks will be equipped with the system, with implementation continuing over the next several weeks.
“When our community needs us, every second counts,” said Fire Chief, Steve Boyd. “Getting our crews to emergencies quickly and safely, while protecting them as they work on scene, is critical. This technology gives motorists more time to make safe decisions on the road, while incorporating public safety alerts into navigation apps and in-vehicle technology that many people already use every day. By taking advantage of these features and working together, we can help prevent collisions, keep our roads safer, and ensure our crews can respond swiftly when they are needed most.”
This technology supports Ontario’s ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ law, which requires motorists to slow down, signal, and move over for emergency vehicles.
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