If you need police car sirens for your vehicles, then you may think you know exactly what to consider. However, there may be a few things that you didn’t know that may change your decision. Of course, everyone knows the advantages of the siren can include warning people of your arrival and safely getting them out of your way.
While lights are also used, the siren tends to be more effective because it can be heard long before you arrive in the area, giving motorists enough time to slow down and safely pull over. Lights can also signal to move over, but drivers won’t see them until you are quickly approaching. In essence, both lights and a siren work best to get passersby out of the way.
Sounds
Law enforcement vehicles typically have a specified sound used in the siren so that motorists know they are law enforcement and not fire or ambulance. Many times, a siren will produce loud sounds, but get louder as you approach an intersection. This is to help signal that you have the right of way and can be heard over the traffic.
Electric versions are now available that make it easier to change the volume of the siren and provide a clearer sound.
Sound Pollution
While a siren can be extremely helpful, it is important to remember that metropolitan cities have a lot of noises, including vehicles, motorcycles, night clubs, factories and more. Your siren will add to the din, which can be a nuisance to many people.
Panic
No matter how loud or quiet the siren is, it will likely produce a panic among people. People on the streets will try to find out where the law enforcements are going and may go into the road while drivers may try to swerve out of the way if you turn them on suddenly.
Hearing Problems
It is usually recommended that officers in vehicles with a siren should wear protective ear coverings or plugs so that the sound is slightly deafened. Many law enforcement agencies require ear plugs. However, people won’t have this type of protection, so it is important to turn off the siren as soon as you can so that they don’t have any health problems in the future.