Abstract: A method for determining a water level with respect to a vehicle is provided. The method includes receiving vehicle sensor data from one or more sensors supported by the vehicle. The method also includes determining the water level based on the received sensor data. The method includes transmitting instructions to a drive system. The instructions causing vehicle brakes supported by the vehicle to engage.

Abstract: A safety system for a vehicle is utilized as an animal detection system. By using an infrared camera and other sensors and/or cameras the safety system may detect an object in an area around the vehicle. A controller analyzes data from the sensors and/or cameras and determines if the object is an animal. If the object is determined to be an animal the controller initiates a response to avoid or minimize the chance of impacting the animal. A warning signal(s) is provided to the vehicle operator. A deterrent signal(s) is used to deter the animal from approaching the vehicle. Also, the animal detection system may send a signal to at least one other safety system for the vehicle to provide a crash avoidance response and/or to provide a crash preparation response.