Emergency? There’s an App for That!

Emergency? There’s an App for That!

July 19, 2016 | Tip of the Month

Now that you have a weather radio app on your smartphone (you do, don’t you?), it is time to expand your emergency toolkit. All of these apps are available for both iPhone and Android:

The American Red Cross has a suite of apps to cover a wide range of emergencies. Each app covers what to do if you are in the middle of an emergency, next steps, and preparedness tips. Short videos illustrate things like first aid steps. The apps are also available in Spanish.

 First Aid: This is a must-have. In addition to first aid steps, this app can direct you to a hospital near you. If you have a dog or cat, consider the $0.99 Pet First Aid App.

 Flood, Tornado, Earthquake, Wildfire, & Hurricane: Each of these apps addresses a specific threat. Definitely load the ones that address threats in your geographic area, and consider others if you travel. If you have to evacuate, each can help you locate shelters near you.

 Emergency: A highly customizable and informative “all-inclusive” app combines more than 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts, and provides up to date listings of disaster shelters.

FEMA’s Mobile App: Tips on how to survive natural disasters, weather alerts from the National Weather Service, a place to share your disaster photos, locate Disaster Recovery Centers and apply for assistance.

Facebook’s Safety Check: Connect with friends and loved ones during a disaster.