Farmington Fire Department to launch emergency vehicle alert technology

Drivers in the Four Corners will soon be alerted to emergency vehicles up to 30 seconds before seeing them on the highway.

Starting the new year, the Farmington Fire Department will implement HAAS Alert's Safety Cloud, which will deliver real-time digital alerts to motorists when emergency vehicles are approaching or are at a scene in the surrounding area, the city announced in a news release Monday.

When emergency lights are activated, Safety Cloud starts sending alerts to vehicle infotainment systems and navigation applications, which drivers have to opt in to or download. Drivers who have the app will receive the notifications up to 30 seconds before reaching that emergency vehicle, work zone or hazard, according to the Safety Cloud Guide.

This will provide drivers "critical advance warning, a proven measure shown to reduce collision risks by up to 90%," city of Farmington spokesperson Gina Intoppa said.

State law requires drivers to slow down and change lanes for active emergency vehicles. However, "flashing lights and sirens do not always provide enough notice, particularly at high speeds or low-visibility conditions," Intoppa said in the release.

Farmington Deputy Fire Chief Tom Miller said in a statement that the new technology "will bridge the gap between what the law requires and what happens on the road."

"Roadside line-of-duty deaths are preventable tragedies," he said. "By combining this technology with public awareness, we are creating safer roads for everyone."

It cost $15,000 to implement the alert system, Intoppa said by email, adding that more than 4,000 agencies nationwide use Safety Cloud.

Gregory R.C. Hasman is a general assignment reporter and the Road Warrior. He can be reached at ghasman@abqjournal.com or 505-823-3820.