It's blue and red lights when it comes to Wilmington police.
The Wilmington Police Department is updating its patrol vehicles with a new emergency vehicle lighting and siren system. Patrol vehicles are being switched to red and blue emergency lights instead of all-blue light bars. Unmarked patrol vehicles and a motorcycle will be the first to see the changes.
“The reason is simple — increasing visibility,” Sgt. Ronald Evans, the police department’s public information officer, said in a video released along with the announcement. “Research has shown that red and blue lights together are easier for drivers to see in a variety of lighting and weather conditions. Red is more visible during the day, while blue stands out at night, giving drivers more time
to recognize an emergency vehicle and react safely.
“Whether an officer is responding to an emergency, investigating a crash or conducting a traffic stop, every second counts. The sooner drivers recognize an emergency vehicle, the sooner they can slow down, move over when it’s safe, and help protect everyone on the roadsides, including officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, tow truck operators and the people they’re there to help.”
Wilmington Police Chief Ryan Zuidema said in a news release: “The safety of our officers and the community is always our highest priority. … This change strengthens our commitment to providing the safest and most effective service possible.”
The police department is adding a new, low-frequency siren to complement its existing siren system.
“It produces deep, vibrating sound waves designed to let drivers and pedestrians physically feel the warning,” Evans said.
In recent years Wilmington police have used tools such as drones and virtual response training technology to enhance officer preparedness and public safety.
“The lights may look a little different,” Evans said. “Some of the sirens will sound a little different. But our mission hasn’t changed. Every decision we make is centered on keeping our community safe.”
Bob Liepa is the city of Wilmington and public safety reporter for the StarNews. You can reach him at RLiepa@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington police marking change to vehicle lights
