Winnipeg to test emergency vehicle pre-purchase technology

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) is looking at the benefits of Emergency Vehicle Advance (EVP) technology.

WFPS says EVP is currently being used by other first responder agencies to reduce time to arrive at critical calls and improve road safety for drivers and first responders.

Fire trucks and ambulances will be equipped with transponders that can automatically activate green lights on the routes they are traveling.

It also allows drivers to safely pull out of the way for emergency vehicles.

“Our crews respond to medical and fire emergencies where minutes and seconds matter,” said Chief Christian Schmidt. “We hope the pilot results show that EVP technology can help us serve Winnipeggers more efficiently while also making our roads safer.”

Winnipeg's EVP technology pilot project began this week, with the technology installed at intersection 17 along Osborne Street and several other intersections in the area.

The city has previously been offered EVP technology. The 2020 WFPD Master Plan and the city's most recent survey of fire underwriters recommended the EVP for safety improvements.

In 2022, a feasibility study found that EVP could reduce response times in Winnipeg by up to 20 per cent and reduce the number of emergency vehicle collisions by 25 per cent.

It is also believed that EVP can improve patient outcomes, which can also reduce healthcare costs.

The pilot project is expected to continue until March 2025, after which it will be reevaluated.