Automated Driver and Responder Alert System Operational Field Assessment Report

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) First Responder Technologies Division initiated a project with the goal of enhancing roadway safety for first responders. Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) developed the Automated Driver and Responder Alert System (ADRAS) prototype to assist in reaching this goal. ADRAS intends to serve as a holistic system to enhance roadway safety for emergency personnel by alerting drivers as they approach emergency scenes and giving them specific collision avoidance instructions; additionally, it provides responders a warning of inbound vehicular threats with sufficient lead-time to take protective action. ADRAS uses a roof mounted radar and loudspeaker to accomplish these tasks. S&T's National Urban Security Technology Laboratory conducted an operational field assessment that allowed responders to test the prototype in operational scenarios; NUSTL obtained feedback based on effectiveness for responders, effectiveness for motorists, operational use cases to optimize use and suggested enhancements.