Peoria first responders can automatically change traffic signals on emergency calls

PEORIA (25News Now) - Peoria ambulances fitted with a new technology won’t be speeding through red lights when they’re on emergency calls.

Instead, first responders will only need to flip a switch for traffic lights to automatically turn green before ambulances reach potentially dangerous intersections.

Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) are equipped with Opticom Systems equipment as part of a traffic preemption partnership with the Peoria Fire Department.

Just a flip of a switch automatically also turns on flashing lights on top of traffic signals to alert other drivers.

Six-year-old Sophia Richards of “Sophia Salutes First Responders” has a safety message for the community.

“Pull to the right if you see sirens and lights. Don’t panic if you see a first responder pass by. Don’t race ahead so the first responder can pass by, otherwise if you don’t slow down or pull to the right, then people can get hurt or die,” said Sophia.

AMT plans to invest in the technology and expand its capability to more intersections in the city, according to a news release.

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