The Rumbler sirens, which are currently used by at least 150 U.S. police departments, make the familiar police siren sounds, but also send out low-frequency sound waves designed to grab the attention of drivers distracted by loud music or other competing sounds, the Boston Globe reported Monday.

Boston Police Superintendent-in-chief Robert Dunford said the Rumbler's sound wave is powerful enough to be heard by motorists well before the police vehicle using the Rumbler approaches.

"This gives them advanced warning that there is an emergency vehicle that needs to get out of the intersection," Dunford said.