WFPS response times can be improved with a new urban pilot project – Winnipeg

The green light has been given to a pilot project to help improve emergency response times by activating green lights a little faster.

The city says some WFPS crews have begun using emergency vehicle preemption (EVP) technology to reduce the time it takes to get to critical calls.

The technology has been installed at 17 intersections along Osborne Street and several other intersections in the area.

Ambulances and fire trucks traveling in this direction will be equipped with responders that can automatically activate green lights in the direction of travel. The goal here is to get drivers through the emergency lane as quickly as possible.

Tom Wallace, deputy chief of support services and 911 communications, says the technology can reduce response times by as much as a minute per call.

“It doesn't seem like much, but it's important for our time-sensitive calls,” Wallace said. “It's safer for operators, safer for other motorists and reduces wear and tear on vehicles by reducing braking and acceleration.”

The lamps return to normal operation after two light cycles.

Use of the technology began Monday, and city engineers are working to fine-tune it.

The pilot project will continue until March 2025 and next steps will be assessed thereafter.

© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.