Noise-weary New York ponders a gentler, European-style siren [View all]

[left-of-center2012]

If two New York City lawmakers get their way, the long, droning siren from police cars, fire trucks and ambulances that has been part of the city’s soundtrack for generations would be replaced by a high-low wail similar to what’s heard on the streets of London and Paris.

Their reasons for the switch: The European-style siren is less shrill and annoying and contributes less to noise pollution.

“Europeanizing” New York sirens would not change the decibel level — still topping out at roughly 118 — but would lower the frequency and thus make the sirens less shrill but still ear-catching enough to grab attention.

“The alternating high-low siren required by this legislation is not as piercing,” adds co-sponsor Carlina Rivera, a Manhattan Democrat.

If approved in a council vote —which has yet to be scheduled— the legislation would require sirens on all emergency vehicles to transition within a two-year period.

https://www.apnews.com/dc5d16231f6a482b9cb9a9b41d47a8c6