The new signs will allow operators to alert the public and the Transit Control Centre that emergency responders are needed. Photo courtesy City of Winnipeg
The City of Winnipeg’s bus fleet now features fully operational emergency signals.
The new system, which was completed Dec. 15, will allow operators to alert the public and the Transit Control Centre that emergency responders are needed.
According to a CBC news report, the installation is part of Winnipeg’s commitment to safety for passengers and operators. When the bus operator active the signal, signs on the bus will read “Emergency call 911” and “Do not board bus,” which instructs passenger to stay off the bus and call 911 if they see the message.
Winnipeg Transit invested $9100 on technology development and installation for the emergency signal system, according to a CBC news report.
The emergency system was developed in consultation with the Transit Advisory Committee and includes representations from the Amalgamated Transit Union, the Winnipeg Association of Public Service Officers, the Winnipeg Police Service, and Functional Transit Winnipeg.
Bus operators are trained to use the signal whenever emergency responders are needed. In addition to the new signal system, operators will retain access to a phone to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
