Life-saving technologies: Stockholm ambulances hijack radio frequency to send warnings - TomoNews
- 7 years ago
STOCKHOLM — Accidents involving ambulances and modern vehicles so well-insulated against noise that drivers can’t hear emergency sirens until it’s too late are on the rise in Sweden.
In response, ambulances in Stockholm are testing a new emergency warning system that emits an FM radio signal, according to developers at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology.
The radio signal is picked up by vehicles with a Radio Data System. Drivers’ own stereo systems then alert them to slow down and make space for an approaching ambulance.
The system interrupts all audio playback inside vehicles with a voice announcement about the presence of an ambulance nearby. The announcement is accompanied by a text message on the stereo tuner’s display.
The system reaches two-thirds of vehicles on Swedish roads, and can also warn of accidents ahead, according to the developers.
The developers said the system will enhance accessibility for first responders and improve road safety.
In response, ambulances in Stockholm are testing a new emergency warning system that emits an FM radio signal, according to developers at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology.
The radio signal is picked up by vehicles with a Radio Data System. Drivers’ own stereo systems then alert them to slow down and make space for an approaching ambulance.
The system interrupts all audio playback inside vehicles with a voice announcement about the presence of an ambulance nearby. The announcement is accompanied by a text message on the stereo tuner’s display.
The system reaches two-thirds of vehicles on Swedish roads, and can also warn of accidents ahead, according to the developers.
The developers said the system will enhance accessibility for first responders and improve road safety.