Emergency Response Technology Innovations in Anderson, SC

Anderson County has secured a $529,600 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program.

 

This funding follows a previous $200,000 grant awarded in 2023, which was used to develop a comprehensive Safety Action Plan.

 

The plan highlighted the urgent need to enhance the safety and efficiency of our first responders.

 

Currently, emergency personnel rely solely on lights and sirens when responding to calls or transporting patients.

 

They frequently encounter close calls at intersections, posing risks to both responders and the public.

 

To address this, the new grant will fund a pilot program for Emergency Vehicle Preemption (EVP) systems.

 

These systems allow emergency vehicles to automatically change traffic signals to green as they approach, ensuring a clear and safe path through intersections.

 

EVP technology is activated when emergency lights and sirens are in use, effectively reducing the need for vehicles to navigate against red lights.

 

Anderson County is among only nine recipients in South Carolina to receive this grant.

 

County Council Chair Tommy Dunn emphasized the life-saving potential of the program, stating that every second counts in emergency situations.

 

Greg Elgin, Chair of the Public Safety Committee and a Volunteer Fire Chief, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to implement EVP systems, highlighting the benefits for first responders, patients, and motorists alike.

 

In addition to the EVP initiative, Anderson County has been proactive in enhancing public safety through technology.

 

In June 2025, the county launched the Smart911 emergency alert system, allowing residents to create personalized safety profiles.

 

This system provides first responders with critical information during emergencies, further improving response times and effectiveness.

 

These advancements reflect Anderson County's commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to enhance public safety and support our dedicated first responders.