As first responders, we know every second matters. Preemption is not a luxury. It's a life-saving, response-shaping tool that ensures emergency vehicles can move safely and efficiently through intersections. When it works, it saves lives. When it doesn't, it puts lives at risk.  

Maintain What Works: Reinvest in IR Preemption

IR preemption has been a trusted standard for decades, and it still works—when maintained properly. Agencies should be reinvesting in their existing IR infrastructure to restore and preserve functionality. One simple, cost-effective upgrade with immediate safety benefits is adding integrated confirmation lights. These provide drivers with real-time feedback that their system is functioning, reducing confusion and enhancing coordination—especially in multi-vehicle responses. 

This type of maintenance is relatively low-cost but offers high-impact returns in safety and reliability. 

When to Modernize: The Case for GPS Preemption

That said, some systems have reached the end of their useful life—or face challenges IR simply can't solve. In locations where line of sight is limited, or where IR receivers have degraded beyond repair, it's time to implement GPS-based preemption.

GPS and cellular preemption systems are not the future—they are the now. These systems:

• Eliminate the need for line-of-sight between vehicles and intersections
• Work in dense urban areas, around curves, and through weather
• Provide real-time monitoring, logging, and remote diagnostics
• Offer broader coverage with less hardware at each signal

They also save lives and cut costs. A 2022 study by Applied Information found that:

• GPS preemption systems can reduce emergency response times by up to 20%
• This translates to up to 90 seconds saved per call—a difference that can be life or death
• One city saved $680,000 per year in reduced vehicle wear and tear, collision avoidance, and improved fuel efficiency

For agencies already experiencing issues or planning system-wide upgrades, now is the right time to begin integrating GPS technology. Many modern systems can run alongside existing IR infrastructure, allowing for a phased transition that protects service continuity and spreads out costs.

The Role of Fire Departments: Lead the Way

Fire departments are uniquely positioned to advocate for these changes. Crews see the impact of preemption every day—and feel the pain when it fails. Whether it's pushing for basic IR maintenance or championing GPS modernization, the fire service can lead with data, experience, and urgency.

Let's remember: preemption isn't just another traffic system. It's a frontline tool in public safety.

Moving Forward

Washington's preemption systems have saved lives for decades. But without maintenance and modernization, we risk letting that legacy fade.

• Maintain what works: Invest in IR repairs and upgrades like confirmation lights
• Modernize where needed: Implement GPS in trouble areas or system-wide plans
• Advocate early: Delays in funding mean delays in response times—and in emergencies, that's unacceptable

The technology is available. The benefits are proven. Now it's time to act.

Let's ensure that every intersection our responders face is working for them—not against them.