VIDEO: The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) has implemented a digital alert system that aims to improve roadway safety for drivers and first responders. A city spokesperson says HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud sends real-time digital alerts to drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching or are working a scene nearby.
Although Indiana’s Move Over or Slow Down law requires drivers to slow down and change lanes for first responders, the city says flashing lights and sirens sometimes do not give drivers enough warning, especially at high speeds or in poor visibility.
The alerts are automatically sent whenever an equipped fire apparatus has its emergency lights activated.
The system is now in place, so drivers can receive the alerts while using their regular navigation apps as of Tuesday. No further action is needed to see the alerts.