| Back-up cameras added to squadsBacking up a large fire truck or paramedic unit is a dangerous maneuver due to a limited field of view. National statistics reveal that the majority of damage to an emergency vehicle occurs when the unit is in reverse. Until now, cameras could only be mounted on larger vehicles, such as fire trucks and heavy rescue unit. New technology, however, has enabled backup cameras to be installed in paramedic units, where limited space prevented such gear. With LCD screens becoming so compact, a video display can now be integrated into the rearview mirror of the vehicle. When the driver puts the vehicle in reverse, a 4-inch color screen appears on the rearview mirror, along with audio. When the vehicle is taken out of reverse, the entire mirror becomes a reflective surface again. Last updated: 10/23/2007 |