“Mutual aid allows faster emergency response to more people in more locations. “The goal of every fire department and agency is to serve citizens,” said Smith. “I believe we’ve saved several lives since implementation because we can reach the scene and the hospitals so much faster.” “The results have been remarkable,” said Smith. Because it created a dedicated path to each of the three medical/trauma centers within about 25 miles, the impact of radio-based priority control was immediate.Īs of 2020, average response times for Liberty Township were just over 6 minutes, according to the township’s annual report. Every one of them - along with 18 emergency vehicles - was equipped with Opticom™ traffic signal priority control equipment. Liberty Township features 35 intersections. With its responsive support during the grant writing process along with its prominence in the industry as the leading provider of traffic signal priority control technology, Opticom™ quickly emerged as the clear choice for the LTFD team. Several manufacturers bid on the project. Liberty Township earned an operations and safety grant from AFG in excess of $700,000, with more than $520,000 designated specifically for radio-based preemption technology. The LTFD can reach destinations much quicker - even in other communities with radio-based priority signal control.Īfter deciding to seek funding specifically for radio-based preemption, Smith worked closely with the authorized GTT dealer in Columbus to ensure the grant application was accurate and efficiently demonstrated the urgency for the innovative technology. Plus, it uses highly secure radio communications, so it can accommodate even the most adverse environments in Liberty Township.ĭepartment leaders, including Chief Jensen, wanted the LTFD to be a visionary and key contributor in mutual aid strategies in Delaware County and throughout Ohio. With Opticom™ Radio, preemption can be activated at greater distances and is based on estimated time of arrival at the intersection. “This area’s arterial roads have multiple hills, blind corners and other line-of-sight issues that could minimize the effectiveness of infrared systems,” said Smith. It was soon realized that a radio-based system incorporating geolocation data could help the LTFD improve response times significantly. It is reliable, durable and efficient - but it wasn’t the best option for the unique landscape of the area. The LTFD considered infrared emergency vehicle preemption technology. Key members of the LTFD spoke with GTT representatives to learn more about Opticom™ traffic signal priority control. It would provide continuous improvement and comprehensive self-assessment that would enable the department to enhance progressive, high-quality emergency and preventative services.Īfter studying various methods to improve response times, the LTFD decided to install traffic signal preemption. The LTFD needs to meet acceptable response times at least 90 percent of the time to gain international accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). One of Fire Chief Tim Jensen’s goals is accreditation. Crews reached the scene within guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) only 23 percent of the time. Even though the LTFD took great pride in the level of service it provided, growing traffic volume slowed response times. Most of them are certified in advanced rescue techniques and can respond to a wide range of emergencies.īecause they are responsible for first response and for the highest level of pre-hospital care, it is critical that crews reach the emergency scene as quickly as possible. As a result, its 50-plus firefighters are specially cross-trained as paramedics. It is fully integrated with its own Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division. The LTFD includes two fire stations and serves citizens in a 34-square-mile area. It has also created new challenges and demands for the Liberty Township Fire Department (LTFD). The influx of citizens and visitors has created new opportunities for the area. With more than 9,000 animal species, the zoo attracts more than 2.3 million visitors annually. It is also home to the nation’s largest zoo, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Liberty Township is located in Delaware County, one of the fastest growing counties in Ohio.
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