Silent Alarms are Making Public Transit & Pedestrian Travel Safer – Here is How:
Ever heard of a silent vehicle alarm or a “Silent Alarm?”
Remember the old spy movies where they had the person blink twice for yes or blink once for no? Ok, so maybe you do or don’t – regardless, silent communication is not reserved just for Hollywood.
Silent alarms have long been utilized, but now they are assisting in making public transit, ride-sharing, and pedestrian travel safer. In addition, as smart cities move to adopt safety protocols for their citizens and workers, they are using technology to help.
Today, we will share how it is all coming together!
How Silent Vehicle Alarms are Making Public Travel Safer
Imagine a situation where a bus driver, public transit rider, or taxi cab driver/rider doesn’t feel safe. The options are usually limited, especially if there is a rare but possible immediate threat of danger.
Sometimes, calling 911 on a smartphone isn’t readily available, or someone feels uncomfortable doing so. This can go to a rider or the driver.
Issues with public bus transportation safety already exist due to the poor communication of safety rules for passengers, ineffective signage, driver distraction, and unruly passengers.
On some occasions, there may be instances of the extreme threat of or actual violence (think of arguments, fights, or possible theft like purse snatching or pickpocketing) that leave passengers and drivers feeling unsafe. During instances like this, the solution is often a silent communication method which more cities and cab companies are moving towards.
With integrated passenger information systems and silent alarm buttons, passengers have the comfort of knowing they can ride safer, and drivers know they, too, can focus on the road instead of playing bus patrol.
What is a silent alarm system & how does it work:
A silent alarm system is precisely what you might think it is – a silent alert to authorities that do not notify the intruder or perpetrator, just the first responders/police.
Retail stores, schools, and commercial buildings frequently will have silent alarms that make no audible noise to alert intruders but notify authorities and dispatch. Using a similar approach, cities are outfitting public buses with similar technology.
Panic buttons and rider information systems are conveniently installed on many buses that can alert authorities while promoting safety for drivers and riders. Taxicab companies also include similar technology, and some provide drivers with a panic button in the event of a robbery.
If you see a taxicab with the status ‘HELP,’ it can be a silent signal to notify authorities that the driver needs help. This protects the driver, and there are similar options for passengers.
At LYT, we use artificial technology and cloud-based software to assist transit authorities and emergency response personnel with their travel.
Related: Emergency Response Times & Insurance – How They Correlate
What about pedestrian travel?
Safety protocols were enacted on many large college campuses in the 2000s to prevent attacks and robberies. One mechanism was the installation of alarm systems around campuses, similar to what you might find at a crosswalk.
Students can hit a button that signals an emergency to authorities and bring attention to the area with flashing lights. Emergency poles – as they are often referred to – can be found in larger metropolitan areas and on college campuses to help protect pedestrian travelers.
Personal safety apps and devices exist, as well – all to promote safer travel for all.
With one common goal in mind, many cities see the future of safety as closely intertwined with transportation and technology!
Vimeo Video on Silent Alarms for Taxis:
