State police launches Safety Cloud for responder safety

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (WWLP) - The Massachusetts State Police are launching a new program meant to protect first responders.

The Safety Cloud will send real-time alerts to drivers about emergency vehicles in their area. It's a reminder through your GPS to give you time to slow down, move over, and stay safe around emergency vehicles on the road. 

Back in February, the State Police received $135,000 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grant award to help with the installation of the Safety Cloud in 233 marked cruisers that will patrol across the Commonwealth.

During the first 12 weeks of operation, around 900,000 motorists have received advance notice of a cruiser’s presence to prevent crashes and to allow these cruisers to respond to emergencies quickly and safely. 

In 2024, there were 42 times when State Police cruisers were struck on the road, and they're hoping a system like this can help keep their officers safe. 

"This innovative new technology will save lives. It protects law enforcement and first responders when they're responding to emergencies on our roads, while also making it safer for nearby drivers and pedestrians," said Governor Maura Healey. "I applaud Colonel Noble and his team at the State Police for the successful implementation of this game changing notification system."

"The safety of drivers, pedestrians, law enforcement and first responders is always our top priority," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "We're glad to see that thousands of people have already used this technology, which will reduce crashes with emergency vehicles and enhance safety for us all."

“As an innovative Department committed to using technology to mitigate dangerous situations, the Massachusetts State Police believe Safety Cloud will enhance the safety of Troopers, first responders, and the public we serve,” said Colonel Geoffrey Noble. “By providing automatic, advanced notice to drivers approach an emergency scene or a responding vehicle, we hope they can use good judgement and take action to move over, slow down, and pay extra attention to their surroundings. We appreciate our partners at the Office of Grants and Research, the Executive Office of Public Safety, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration who provided funding for this important project.”