BRITS will start to see an important new alert on their car navigation apps starting from next week.

On Monday, live alerts for approaching ambulances will start to appear on platforms like Waze.

The system is being implemented across the south east of England first with the South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb). It is the first ambulance service in Europe to deploy the digital warning system by fitting special trackers in its fleet of vehicles. The major change is designed to give drivers early notice of oncoming ambulances, potentially well before they see blue lights or hear sirens. And ultimately it's hoped the move will help paramedics get to emergencies faster.

It's expected to reduce the cost and time associated with repairing damaged vehicles too, as well as improving road safety for all, according to SECAmb. Alerts will also start to appear on dashboards for new compatible vehicles as they come to the market. "We are pleased to be trialling this technology in our response vehicles," explained SECAmb Fleet Services Manager, Rob Martin. "The alerts, in addition to traditional lights and sirens, will mean motorists able to use the system will be aware of our presence sooner.

"This extra time not only creates a safer experience for motorists but also our operational crews and patients across the south east."

The new alert will show up in apps as an ambulance icon and details how far away it currently is.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service recently kitted its fire engines out with the tech, also becoming the first in its field across Europe to do so. A number of fire departments in the US are already using it. The system is called Safety Cloud by HAAS Alert.

"Our department is all about leveraging the latest tools at our disposal to reduce response time and protect our local roads," said Matt Derrick, Head of Transport and Technical Services at Avon Fire & Rescue Services.

"We’re thrilled to pave the way for fire departments in Europe."

This article was originally published by Jamie Harris at The Sun