Telematics in Emergency Situations

Over the past month, the U.S. has experienced more natural disasters than it has in several years. Hurricanes, wildfires, and flooding have caused destruction and devastation across the nation, affecting homes and businesses from coast to coast.

As we have seen in years past, the recovery, restoration, and clean-up processes present their own challenges and difficulties, even after the catastrophes have passed. Thankfully, in the years between Katrina, Sandy, Harvey, and Irma, advances in technology have improved recovery efforts and abilities.

Telematics, in particular, now offers better routing, increased telecommunication, and improved emergency responses for disasters throughout the country.

1. Routing

As fires and flooding ravaged cities and populated areas, residents were left guessing which roads were open or damaged. Even now, weeks after Harvey flooded Houston, some rivers continue to flood roads and streets within and around the city. As vehicles navigate the treacherous roads, the use of telematics has allowed authorities to direct drivers to open and safe routes. By updating routing options in real-time, telematics improves traffic flow and keeps travelers away from roads that are closed or under construction.

2. Telecommunication

In the chaos that follows a natural disaster, communication is essential to the safety and recovery of the affected area. With telematics, relief efforts can track incoming shipments and utility vehicles. As donations and recovery teams pour into the area, they can use GPS tracking to adequately equip volunteers and first responders. By tracking vehicles, recovery teams can coordinate their efforts and effectively clear debris, deliver supplies, and rescue the trapped and helpless.

3. First Responders

As with incoming relief efforts, telematics facilitates the efforts of first responders. As the first people on the scene, smooth first responder operations are essential to the survival and well-being of countless lives. With the data gathered through telematics, first responders can coordinate their efforts, find the best route options, and locate survivors through cell phone GPS signals.

How have you seen telematics aid recovery efforts?