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Earthquake App
updated: Sep 25, 2012, 2:04 PM
Source: Red Cross
The American Red Cross has launched its official Earthquake App, putting
lifesaving information right in the hands of Californians.
"This newest app gives instant access to local and real time information on what
to do before, during and after earthquakes," said Julie McGovern, Executive
Director, American Red Cross Santa Barbara County Chapter. "Santa Barbara County
residents can receive earthquake notifications and can track activity where
other family and friends live."
This free app--available in English or Spanish--is the third in a series created
by the American Red Cross, the nation's leader in emergency preparedness, for
use on both iPhone and Android platforms. The Earthquake App comes on the heels
of the highly successful First Aid and Hurricane apps, which have been
downloaded more than 1 million times.
Features of the app include:
· Earthquake notifications showing the epicenter, magnitude and new
"Shake Zone" intensity maps;
· 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;
· Options to view the app in English or Spanish based on user handset
settings;
· 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;
· Information on events that may happen after earthquakes such as fires
and tsunamis;
· Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm; and
· Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social
networks.
Over the past three months, the Red Cross has made great strides in putting
vital information in the hands of people who need it during emergencies. More
than 1 million people have downloaded the First Aid and Hurricane Apps. People
have used the content in our First Aid App to control bleeding, care for broken
bones and help people having seizures. Our Hurricane App was used to find Red
Cross shelters and to send "I'm safe" messages during Hurricane Isaac. National
Red Cross experts in health, safety and preparedness have thoroughly reviewed
and field tested the information and advice provided in Red Cross apps.
The Earthquake App can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store
for Android by searching for American Red Cross. Apps can help prepare people
for disasters, but they are not a substitute for training. Red Cross First Aid
and CPR/AED training empowers people to know how to respond to emergencies in
case advanced medical help is delayed. People can visit redcross.org/takeaclass
for course information and to register.
The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters each year and we help people
get ready to respond to emergencies by providing these apps for free. The Red
Cross needs the help of the public to continue this lifesaving effort. People
can make a donation to the Red Cross by going to redcross.org, texting REDCROSS
to 90999 or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.
About the American Red Cross of Santa Barbara County
The American Red Cross of Santa Barbara County is a non-profit, humanitarian
organization that depends on the generous contributions of time and money from
Santa Barbara County residents and companies to provide services and programs
that help our community prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. For
more information on disaster preparedness, health and safety classes, volunteer
opportunities, and financial contributions, visit our website at
www.redcrosscentralcoast.org or call us at 805-687-1331.
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