After the successful release of the Red Cross First Aid App not long ago, the American Red Cross launched the official Hurricane App yesterday, just in time for hurricane season. The First Aid App had over 600,000 downloads in six weeks and American Red Cross hopes to see the same success with the new app in hurricane prone areas as well.
The app is designed for real life situations, providing access to information before, during, and after a hurricane. The Hurricane App is free and will increase preparedness for both iPhone and Android platform users. It also allows for users to create personalized weather alerts, depending on location, and share information with others in their social networks.
Kay Wilkins, CEO of the American Red Cross – Southeast Louisiana Chapter, said “We want everyone to be to be ready for hurricanes. The Red Cross Hurricane App allows people to receive and spread emergency information and to share their own status with friends and loved ones through social networks, anywhere, anytime.”
Features of the app include:
- One touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way
- Location-based NOAA weather alerts for the United States and its territories users can share on social networks
- Remote monitoring of personalized weather alerts where family and friends reside
- Locations of open Red Cross shelters
- Simple steps and checklists people can use to create a family emergency plan
- Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity
- Tool kit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm
- Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks
The Hurricane and First Aid Apps are available for the iPhone and Android now.