This week, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) launched a pilot project to evaluate the benefits of Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption (EVP) technology. EVP is a system used by first responder agencies to reduce response times to critical calls and improve safety by reducing the risk of traffic collisions.

The technology has been installed at 17 intersections along Osborne Street and several other intersections in the area. Ambulances and fire trucks that regularly respond to emergencies along this corridor are now equipped with transponders. These devices can automatically trigger green lights in the direction of travel of the emergency vehicles, allowing other drivers to move out of the way quickly and efficiently. The traffic lights return to their normal operations after two light cycles.

“Our crews respond to medical and fire emergencies where minutes and seconds matter,” said Chief Christian Schmidt. “We are hopeful that the results from the pilot will show that EVP technology can help us to provide even more efficient service to Winnipeggers, while also making our roadways safer.”

The 2020 WFPS Master Plan and the City’s most recent Fire Underwriters Survey both recommended EVP as a way to improve safety and maintain response times. A feasibility study conducted in 2022 found that EVP could potentially reduce response times in Winnipeg by up to 20 percent and reduce the number of collisions involving emergency vehicles by 25 percent. The study also predicted that EVP could help to improve patient outcomes, thereby reducing health care costs.

Once the EVP pilot project is complete in March 2025, the WFPS and the City’s Signals branch will evaluate the system and its benefits. A report outlining potential next steps will be prepared based on the evaluation. This initiative underscores the commitment of the WFPS and the City of Winnipeg to leverage technology to enhance public safety and service efficiency.

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