1. Temperature Monitoring and Alerts • Internal Temperature Sensors: The system must have temperature sensors inside the vehicle, specifically designed to monitor the conditions within the vehicle where the canine is located. • High/Low Temperature Alerts: Automatic alerts should be triggered when the internal temperature falls outside a safe range for the canine (typically between 60-75°F or as per veterinary guidelines). • Real-Time Notifications: The system should send real-time alerts (via text, email, phone or app notification) to the handler or supervisor if the temperature becomes unsafe. 2. Vehicle Security and Monitoring • Door and Window Sensors: Sensors to detect if doors or windows are left open, providing alerts if they are not securely closed. • Vehicle Intrusion Detection: The system should include motion or tamper sensors to alert when unauthorized access is attempted, such as if someone tries to break into the vehicle. • Lock and Unlock Alerts: Notifications when the vehicle is locked/unlocked, providing a record of access. 3. Engine Status Monitoring • Engine On/Off Detection: The system must monitor whether the engine is on or off, with alerts if the engine is left running for too long or if it’s turned off when it shouldn’t be (e.g., during extreme heat). • Battery Health and Voltage Monitoring: Alerts for low battery levels, both for the vehicle's main battery and any secondary systems related to the alert system (e.g., K9 climate control). 4. Climate Control Integration • Automatic Climate Control System: Integration with the vehicle's climate control system to automatically adjust temperature settings (heating or cooling) if unsafe conditions are detected. • Manual Override: Allow for remote control or manual intervention (by the officer or supervisor) to adjust the vehicle’s climate controls if needed. 5. Remote Monitoring and Control • Remote Access: The system should allow supervisors and handlers to monitor the status of the vehicle remotely, ideally through a mobile app or web portal. • Remote Vehicle Control: The ability to remotely unlock doors, open windows, or adjust climate settings in case of emergency situations. 6. Alerts and Notification Systems • Real-Time Alerts: The system must provide immediate notifications via multiple channels (e.g., SMS, push notifications, email) if critical issues arise (e.g., high temperature, intrusion). • Escalation of Alerts: In the case of ongoing issues (e.g., temperature rising or vehicle being tampered with), alerts should escalate to higher levels (e.g., supervisor, backup team) after a specified period of time without resolution. • Visual/Audio Alerts: For situations where the officer may be nearby, visual or audio alerts can be activated within the vehicle (e.g., flashing lights or sirens) to notify the officer of a critical issue. 7. Data Logging and Reporting • Event Logging: The system should record critical events (e.g., temperature changes, door opening, engine on/off) in a log that can be reviewed later for compliance and auditing purposes. • Data Export: Ability to export event data for compliance reporting, internal investigations, or review of incidents. • Customizable Reporting: Create custom reports for tracking the vehicle’s status over time, including temperature fluctuations, engine status, and security breaches. 8. Integration with Existing Systems • Incident Management Systems: The alert system should integrate and be compatible with all vehicles (police package and civilian) and not interfere with other radios or equipment and can be logged automatically when an alert is triggered. 9. Durability and Reliability • Weather Resistance: The system should be weatherproof and able to function in all types of environmental conditions (e.g., extreme heat, rain, snow). • Vibration and Shock Resistance: The system must be resistant to vibrations, shocks, and the rugged conditions encountered in law enforcement operations. • Long Battery Life: Ensure that any backup power sources (for when the vehicle is turned off) have long battery life to maintain functionality without frequent recharging. 10. Compliance and Standardization • Compliance with Animal Welfare Laws: The system must adhere to relevant local, state, or federal regulations regarding the care and safety of K9 units in vehicles. • Customization for Department Requirements: The system should allow for customization to meet specific needs and guidelines of the Department of Corrections, ensuring it fits into existing protocols and safety standards. 11. User Training and Support • Training for Handlers and Supervisors: The system should come with training resources for handlers and supervisors to properly use the system and respond to alerts. • Support: Ensure that technical support is available in case of system malfunctions or questions about operation. 12. Scalability • Scalability: The system should be easily scalable for future fleet expansions or upgrades. 13. User-Friendly Interface • Intuitive Interface: The system should feature an easy-to-navigate interface, with minimal training required to use it effectively. • Multi-User Access: Different levels of access should be available (e.g., handlers, supervisors, fleet managers) to ensure proper control and monitoring of the system.
