While urban centers bring enormous conveniences and benefits, they aren’t without their share of drawbacks, which often cause a great deal of anxiety, exhaustion, and dread among citizens.
In recent years, however, a host of new tech innovations have sprung up, all aimed at making urban life better and safer. From AI-driven surveillance systems, to panic buttons, smart street lights, and more, urban dwellings are all set for a makeover, and it all looks exciting.
- Artificial Intelligence In Surveillance
There is nothing new about surveillance systems that have spread all across major cities, and while they do act as a deterrent against crimes and law breakers, more often than not, they mostly help in identifying, capturing, and prosecuting criminals, after the crime has been committed.
When paired with AI, however, the same exact surveillance systems develop unprecedented superpowers that take their potential and possibilities to the next level.
These systems can detect unusual behaviors, such as unattended bags in crowded places, or individuals in distress, and send out alerts to the relevant authorities in real-time. This not only speeds up response times, but helps prevent potential threats from escalating.
- Smart Lighting & Infrastructure
Ever found yourself feeling uneasy when walking down a poorly lit street? Cities are solving this problem with smart lighting systems, says Beesmart.city, that adjust based on the time of day and pedestrian traffic. This helps keep streets lit, while also helping save on energy costs.
Beyond this, these lights are equipped with sensors that can alert maintenance crews to outages or malfunctions, ensuring high levels of reliability and that no part of the city remains unlit for long.
Apart from lighting, all forms of infrastructure are getting digital makeover, with bridges and other structures now capable of reporting on their structural health to relevant authorities, alongside better traffic systems that use data to minimize congestion during peak hours.
- Mobile Safety Applications
Cities are going all in on apps, with many now launching all-purpose applications, downloadable on the Play Store or the Apple Store, making all essential city services accessible under one roof.
These apps contain everything for a citizen to access a city’s services, from news and utilities, to a wide range of complaints, support, and feedback mechanisms, but most important are the safety features which can make people feel secure.
This includes emergency buttons to send out an SOS, alongside features to get in touch with local law enforcement even in the case of non-emergencies when you might require guidance.
Beyond the apps provided by your city, there are a slew of apps that can help you stay in better control of your life, home, and surroundings. For home security in particular, consider exploring LiftMaster products, which come with an app to control your doors, garages, and other access points.
- Public Transport Upgrades
Public transportation is a vital part of urban life, but it’s not without its risks. Tech innovations are making public transit safer through the installation of real-time monitoring systems inside buses and trains.
These systems keep track of passenger counts and provide video feeds that ensure any incidents can be quickly addressed. Furthermore, many transit systems now use apps that let passengers report issues directly from their smartphones, which helps to keep authorities informed and responsive.
- Community Engagement Platforms
Technology has enabled a new level of interaction between city governments and their citizens, according to EY. Through online platforms, residents can participate in safety initiatives, report problems, or receive updates about local issues.
These platforms foster a sense of community and shared responsibility, which is crucial for urban safety. They also allow for the efficient gathering of community feedback, which can lead to tailored safety measures that directly address the concerns of residents.
Conclusion
As we can see, technology isn’t just making urban life more convenient, it’s making it safer. By integrating AI, smart infrastructure, mobile applications, and community-focused solutions, cities are becoming better equipped to handle the complexities of modern urban living, says ScienceDirect.
These technologies not only respond to safety issues but also prevent them, marking a new era of urban safety where technology is a trusted ally. As urban areas continue to grow, the role of technology in maintaining safety will only become more significant, promising a safer urban future for everyone.
