Mobile Fire-Rescue Department Implements New Technology to Improve Roadway Safety
By Dale Hines
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
October 21, 2026
MOBILE, AL – Mobile Fire-Rescue Department emergency vehicles are equipped with technology that sends HAAS Alerts to compatible navigation apps (such as Waze) and standard vehicle platforms found in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Mazda, notifying drivers in the surrounding area that an emergency vehicle is approaching. These advanced warnings provide an additional layer of safety for both motorists and first responders. MFRD was able to coordinate the HAAS Alert program with the Mobile County Communications District. MCCD provided financial support for the software, seeing the value of this program to protect first responders. The program started with Mobile Fire-Rescue, but future plans are to expand this service to other county agencies, with priority given to departments that respond on the interstate.
Mobile Fire-Rescue Department has also implemented emergency traffic signal preemption technology across its fleet. Using HAAS Miovision technology, all MFRD emergency vehicles can request changes to traffic signal operations as they approach an intersection during an emergency. When the system is available and functioning as intended, it can provide a green light in the emergency vehicle’s direction of travel while conflicting traffic movements receive a red signal. This technology helps first responders navigate intersections more safely and efficiently, but motorists still play an important role in keeping our roadways safe. The city currently has 53 intersections utilizing this technology.
When driving, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Listen for sirens, watch for flashing emergency lights, and check your mirrors regularly. If an emergency vehicle approaches with its emergency lights and siren activated, safely move to the right side of the roadway and stop when required and when it is safe to do so. Never enter an intersection against a red light or assume an intersection is clear simply because you have a green light.
Technology can provide valuable warnings and help emergency crews navigate traffic, but safe driving practices and public awareness remain essential. By staying alert and yielding appropriately, motorists can help our crews reach those who need us while keeping everyone safer on the road.
For more information, or to schedule an interview, please contact Capt. Millhouse at (251) 208-1500 or by email steven.millhouse@cityofmobile.gov.
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