Strategy #40
Emergency Response Vehicle Operation
Use technology to improve the safe operation of emergency response vehicles.
Background
Technology is being developed that will improve the efficiency and safety of vehicle operations. Some of this technology is in the research stage and others are available to the public. Some examples of evolving vehicle technology include infrared vision enhancement, crash avoidance, and navigational equipment. This technology will benefit both law enforcement and the motoring public.
Actions
- Use night vision enhancement devices, such as infrared equipment, to improve driving visibility and to scan the terrain for subjects (suspects and/or search and rescue subjects).
- Use crash avoidance technology to alert and warn the vehicle operator of an imminent collision.
- Encourage the use of the latest display technology in vehicles to include hands-free, eye-activated, head-up displays.
Benefits
- Improves officer and public safety.
- Enhances night visibility.
- Assists law enforcement personnel by locating suspects or subjects and reduces search time.
- Reduces vehicle collisions.
Other Considerations
- Added requirement of multitasking, which can cause driver distraction and inattention, affecting safe vehicle operation.
- Cost of the technology.
- Increased skills, expertise and training for personnel to support and operate.
- Accuracy and reliability of technology.
- Potential increased support staff requirements, which may cause a reduction in existing personnel levels.
- Inter-connectivity with other systems and privacy issues of shared systems.
- Available technology must work in concert with effective emergency vehicle operation programs.