Queensland firefighters look to combat congestion and help save lives through siren trial

Queensland firefighters are trialling new sirens to help save precious seconds during emergency callouts – and potentially help save lives in the process.

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said today (Monday) the new technology could result in faster response times for crews.

Mr Crawford said rumbler-type sirens have been fitted to eight fire and rescue trucks across the state to alert distracted drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

“The sirens emit low-frequency soundwaves through large subwoofer speakers attached to the front of the vehicle – creating a vibration which can be felt up to 60m away,” Mr Crawford said.

“Modern technology, such as better sound systems and sound-proofed vehicles, are making it increasingly difficult for firefighters to alert motorists to their presence and allow fire trucks to weave in and out of high-traffic areas to get to an emergency.

“Flashing lights and sirens might go unnoticed, but these sirens vibrate - making them more noticeable.”  

“It’s hoped the rumbling feeling being directed at road users will help firefighters reach emergencies quicker, and more safely.”

Mr Crawford said high-traffic inner-city areas are being targeted during the long-term trial. He said commuters in Brisbane’s CBD, Durack, Acacia Ridge, Caboolture, Surfers Paradise, Bundamba and Townsville were likely to have already “felt the vibrations”.

“Any further rollout will rely on the outcome of the current trial phase,” Mr Crawford said.

“Some Queenslanders aren’t moving out of the way fast enough, so spending the time trialling new technology that combats this will be worth it in the long run.

“Firefighters need to get to incidents – it’s about efficiency and keeping the community as safe as possible in the process.”

Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) Townsville Station Officer Jay Roberts said the overall feedback from local crews was positive.

“We’re definitely seeing a difference – people are becoming more aware of approaching fire trucks,” Mr Roberts said.

“Our sirens are the thing that gets traffic out of the way, and having something that enhances their effectiveness further assists us to get to incidents as fast as possible.

“I’ve been doing this for a long, long time, and it’s great to see siren technology improving. It’s encouraging to know technology, which is used elsewhere around the world, is being trialled here in Queensland.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the new sirens each cost about $2000 to install – a small price to pay when every second counts.

“Although this is a trial phase, it’s important not to rule out methods which could significantly improve safety, efficiency and operational performance,” Ms Carroll said.

“Any technology that could assist in saving lives and improving the overall efficiency of our firefighters will always be considered.”

ENDS

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