Muskoka drivers may now get a warning before they ever hear the siren.

Muskoka Paramedic Services has become the first paramedic service to deploy a new digital notification system with HAAS Safety Cloud and ACETECH Global, aimed at making roads safer for paramedics, patients and the public.

The system sends alerts to nearby drivers when an ambulance is responding to an emergency or stopped at a roadside scene. Those alerts appear through compatible 2018 or newer Stellantis in-vehicle infotainment systems and the Waze navigation app.

Instead of having only a few seconds to react when an ambulance approaches, drivers may now get about 30 to 60 seconds of advance notice. The alerts can be visual or audible, giving people more time to move over safely.

The technology uses ACETECH hardware already installed in Muskoka Paramedic Services ambulances. When paramedics respond to a call, the system automatically sends alerts to nearby smartphones and compatible vehicle navigation systems.

Drivers do not need to sign up. The alerts appear through systems they may already use.

The service says the system can help reduce sudden braking, unpredictable reactions and close calls around emergency vehicles. It may also improve response times by helping drivers clear a path sooner.

The alerts can also warn drivers when ambulances are stopped at emergency scenes, where paramedics may be working near traffic.

The launch comes during Paramedic Services Week, a time set aside to recognize the work paramedics do every day in their communities.

Muskoka Paramedic Services says the new system is part of its work to improve patient care, staff safety and community well-being.

Drivers are still reminded to follow Ontario’s Move Over laws and stay alert for emergency vehicles at all times.

Read more from YR – Google News Paramedic.