EMERGENCY FIRE RESPONSE ASSISTANCE
Hi Waze Team,
I’d like to suggest a feature called “Emergency Fire Response Assistance” to help firefighters reach fire incidents faster and improve traffic flow around emergency scenes.
This feature could allow authorized responders to tag a “Fire Incident Zone” with the exact address, providing quick routes that avoid traffic and obstacles. Nearby users would get alerts to take alternative routes, helping clear the way for responders.
Additionally, dispatch centers could send real-time updates to firefighters (like building entry points or obstacles) for more precise navigation. Once an incident is resolved, responders could mark the area as “clear,” lifting any traffic restrictions.
This would support public safety by improving response times and minimizing congestion around fire scenes.
Thank you for considering this!
Maria flor De luna
shared this idea
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Tom Jankiewicz commented
Hi,
I'm a volunteer firefighter in Guilford, CT, and I'd like to suggest a feature that could improve both public safety and traffic management.
As first responders, we frequently close roads or lanes due to motor vehicle accidents, fires, downed trees, and other hazards. Currently, Waze allows users to report road closures, but only at intersections. Many incidents occur between intersections, making it impossible to accurately report the actual closure location.
I propose a "Verified First Responder" reporting feature. Using an existing verification service such as ID.me, Waze could grant verified responders access to additional reporting options, including:
• Road Closed
• Lane Closed
• Emergency SceneThese reports could be pinned to an exact GPS location rather than an intersection and could carry greater weight in Waze's routing logic, allowing the app to alert drivers and reroute traffic sooner.
I recently responded to a motorcycle accident on a narrow, winding road where emergency vehicles completely blocked passage. Traffic continued arriving because there was no practical way to report the closure in Waze. I've encountered similar situations during major crashes on Route 1 and during storm-related tree removals.
Reducing traffic around active emergency scenes improves safety for both the public and first responders. Roadway incidents remain one of the leading causes of first responder fatalities, and a feature like this could help keep unnecessary traffic away from dangerous scenes.