A Tampa startup that's created technology to enhance safety and communication for firefighters and the Department of Defense has a new collaboration.
The Florida Institute of Oceanography is adopting EaseAlert's tactile and visual alert system on board the research vessel Western Flyer. This collaboration is between FIO, EaseAlert and its host institution, the University of South Florida. EaseAlert is a member of Embarc Collective in Tampa.
The wearable technology will alert crew members of emergencies on the ship.
“We are devoted to pushing the boundaries of ocean research while prioritizing the safety and inclusiveness of our crew and students," said Monty Graham, director of FIO, in a release.
FIO was searching for a multisensory alerting solution for students and researchers for oceanographic activities and deep-sea exploration. The system allows those who are deaf or hard of hearing to get emergency notifications on board the Western Flyer.
“The use of assistive technology ensures a safe environment for everyone on board the Western Flyer and empowers individuals with disabilities to actively participate in oceanographic research and deep-sea exploration," said Allison Dinsmore, associate director of student accessibility services at USF, in the release.
The captain will press the EaseAlert activation button before sounding a general alarm bell. This will send tactile alerts on the wearables — a 10-second vibration — and BunkAlerts illuminates bunk rooms with red LED lights.
"This opens exciting doors to adjacent markets and inspires us to think big with the impact EaseAlert can create,” said Blake Richardson, the co-founder and CEO of EaseAlert.
